The Detroit Pistons are planning to go after former Raptors head coach Dwane Casey, according to ESPN‘s Adrian Wojnarowski: Former Toronto Raptors coach Dwane Casey will be a primary target of the Pistons coaching search, league sources tell ESPN. Full story soon on site. https://t.co/GpB9Qs9qXt — Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 24, 2018 Casey was fired […]

Casey was fired by Toronto despite leading the team to a franchise record 59-win season and the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. In seven years with the Raps, Casey posted an overall record of 320-238.

Detroit parted ways with Stan Van Gundy — as both coach and president of basketball operations — a few weeks ago. As Wojnarowski reports, the organization is hiring Grizzlies executive Ed Stefanski to “assess the current front office, and oversee the process of hiring a GM and coach.”

The Detroit Pistons have hired Grizzlies executive Ed Stefanski as a senior advisor responsible for overhauling the franchise’s basketball operations, league sources told ESPN. Stefanski will assess the current front office, and oversee the process of hiring a GM and coach.

The Toronto Raptors reportedly interviewed Jerry Stackhouse, the coach of the G-League’s Raptors 905, for their head coaching position, per Yahoo! Sports’ Shams Charania. The Toronto Raptors interviewed Jerry Stackhouse, head coach of G League affiliate Raptors 905, last week in Chicago for the team's head coach opening, league sources tell Yahoo. — Shams Charania […]

Stackhouse was an assistant coach for the Raptors in 2015 and has led Raptors 905 to back-to-back G-Leauge Finals appearances, winning once in 2017. He was awarded the 2017 G-League Coach of the Year after finishing the regular season 39-11 and downing the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the Finals.

Stackhouse is no stranger to the NBA — he scored 16,409 points with eight NBA teams over his 19-year playing career.

The Toronto Raptors “quietly explored” trades involving DeMar DeRozan last offseason, according to the NYT‘s Marc Stein. DeRozan, 28, has two years (and $55.5 million) left on his deal with Toronto before he can opt-out. Word is that the Raptors quietly explored their DeMar DeRozan trade options last summer — before they had any inkling […]

DeRozan, 28, has two years (and $55.5 million) left on his deal with Toronto before he can opt-out.

Word is that the Raptors quietly explored their DeMar DeRozan trade options last summer — before they had any inkling that a breakout season was looming — and I’d fully expect Toronto to explore those possibilities again.

The Milwaukee Bucks and Toronto Raptors are focusing their coaching searches on former Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Arguably the most accomplished available coach, Budenholzer will have discussions with Milwaukee and Toronto this week. Mike Budenholzer has emerged as the focus of the Milwaukee and Toronto coaching searches, league sources tell […]

Arguably the most accomplished available coach, Budenholzer will have discussions with Milwaukee and Toronto this week.

Mike Budenholzer has emerged as the focus of the Milwaukee and Toronto coaching searches, league sources tell ESPN. Raptors are opening conversations with Budenholzer and Bucks will re-engage with him early this week, sources said.

The Raptors need a new head coach, and Metta World Peace knows the right guy for the job. In an interview with TMZ Sports, the former NBA player suggested that rapper Drake should take over the position. “If he had the right staff, he could do it,” World Peace said. “Yeah, he should do it. […]

The Raptors need a new head coach, and Metta World Peace knows the right guy for the job.

In an interview with TMZ Sports, the former NBA player suggested that rapper Drake should take over the position.

“If he had the right staff, he could do it,” World Peace said. “Yeah, he should do it. I think he could do it.”

Toronto announced Friday that Dwane Casey had been fired following a franchise-record 59-win season. Asked about that decision, World Peace said the “only thing that matters is that he cashed the check.” Casey was with the franchise from 2011-18.

The Toronto Raptors have fired head coach Dwane Casey, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Toronto has fired coach Dwane Casey, league source tells ESPN. — Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 11, 2018 Under Casey, the Raptors won a franchise-best 59 games during the 2017-18 regular season, but were swept in the playoffs by the Cavaliers for […]

Under Casey, the Raptors won a franchise-best 59 games during the 2017-18 regular season, but were swept in the playoffs by the Cavaliers for the second straight year.

In a statement, Raptors president Masai Ujiri called the firing “a very difficult but necessary step” for the franchise.

“After careful consideration, I have decided this is a very difficult but necessary step the franchise must take. As a team, we are constantly trying to grow and improve in order to get to the next level.

“We celebrate everything Dwane has done for the organization, we thank him, and we wish him nothing but the best in future.

“He was instrumental in creating the identity and culture of who we are as a team, and we are so proud of that.”

In seven seasons with the Raptors, Casey led the team to a regular-season record of 320-238.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/report-raptors-fire-dwane-casey/feed/02018 Michael ReavesLeBron James Told the Raptors How to Run Plays During Gamehttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/lebron-james-told-raptors-run-plays-game/
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“I was in the gym when I watched him on the floor against Toronto tell Patrick Patterson where he was supposed to go on the play they had called out of a timeout late in the fourth quarter,” Griffin said.

“He was like ‘no Pat, you’re supposed to stand over there and set a pin down for DeMar (DeRozan) over here.'”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/lebron-james-told-raptors-run-plays-game/feed/02018 NBAECLEVELAND, OH - MAY 7: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers warms up before Game Four of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Toronto Raptors during the 2018 NBA Playoffs on May 7, 2018 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)Brad Stevens Says He’s Not the Coach of the Yearhttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/brad-stevens-says-hes-not-coach-year/
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Stevens, who inexplicably didn’t earn a single vote from his colleagues, claims he wouldn’t have cast a ballot for himself either.

Humble Brad would have voted himself last in Coach of the Year voting. "I looked at the sheet and there’s no way that I would have voted for me over any of the other 29 people." pic.twitter.com/HeKu6TAYQp

“All the other stuff, like the coaching votes and everything else,” Stevens said, “the way that thing works is you get one vote. And I’m telling you I looked down the sheet and there’s no way that I would have voted for me over any of the other 29 people and the guy that should have won got it. And those other guys that get votes, they’re unbelievable. I’m stealing from those guys all the time.

“It’s so incredible to have an opportunity to be one of 30, and I think it’s a lot more important to just focus on competing with your team rather than trying to compare yourself to others. Becuase I’m telling you if it gets to be a comparison contest, I’m screwed.”

Stevens also noted how much he appreciated the support he received from former players on social media.

“So first of all, I think you know me well enough to know that all that stuff just doesn’t … so anyways, it means a lot more to me when I get a text message from or you hear something nice said from a former player,” Stevens said, referring to the support from Isaiah Thomas and Evan Turner. ”(Isaiah and Evan) know how much I appreciate and like them and enjoyed our times together so that means a lot.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/brad-stevens-says-hes-not-coach-year/feed/02018 NBAEPHILADELPHIA, PA - May 5: Head Coach Brad Stevens of the Boston Celtics looks on against the Philadelphia 76ers during Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semi Finals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs on May 5, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)Dwane Casey Expects To Coach The Raptors Next Seasonhttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/dwane-casey-expects-coach-raptors-next-season/
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Despite reports that his job may be in jeopardy, Raptors coach Dwane Casey says he hasn’t been told that his job is in jeopardy. During his season-ending media session, Casey told reports he still expects to be the coach of the Raptors next season (starting at 3:26): Do you expect to coach the Raptors next season? […]

After being swept yet again by the Cavs, Raptors president Masai Uriji vowed that the franchise will not tank. During his season-ending media session, Uriji told reporters the Raptors will focus on developing players internally (starting at 13:43): “If they want us to break this thing up and start over… What’s the famous word they use? […]

Amid rumors that the Raptors are strongly considering moving on from Dwane Casey, Marc Stein of the New York Times reports that Casey will be named the National Basketball Coaches Association’s Coach of the Year for the 2017-18 season: Dwane Casey of the Toronto Raptors has been selected as the National Basketball Coaches Association’s Coach […]

Amid rumors that the Raptors are strongly considering moving on from Dwane Casey, Marc Stein of the New York Times reports that Casey will be named the National Basketball Coaches Association’s Coach of the Year for the 2017-18 season:

Dwane Casey of the Toronto Raptors has been selected as the National Basketball Coaches Association’s Coach of the Year for the 2017-18 season, according to two people with knowledge of the voting.

Casey will be formally announced as the winner of the N.B.C.A. trophy — which is named in honor of the association’s longtime executive director Michael H. Goldberg — later Wednesday according to the people, who were not authorized to speak publicly about the results.

The NBCA’s Coach of the Year award – separate from the NBA’s COY – is voted on by the League’s 30 head coaches.

According to Stein, Casey, who led Toronto to a franchise-best 59 wins in the regular season, was just one of eight people to receive votes in the balloting. The other seven: Philadelphia’s Brett Brown, Houston’s Mike D’Antoni, Indiana’s Nate McMillan, San Antonio’s Gregg Popovich, Utah’s Quin Snyder, Portland’s Terry Stotts and the Los Angeles Clippers’ Doc Rivers.

Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley’s latest on-air argument took place Tuesday night, as the two Hall of Famers went back-and-forth over whether or not Raptors head coach Dwane Casey should apologize to DeMar DeRozan for benching the All-Star during Toronto’s second-round sweep at the hands of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

“It does feel a lot different because we feel we could possibly make the the NBA Finals, that was our goal. That’s always been a real goal for us, that’s the only things that matters.

“I think we won 59 games, got the one seed — it doesn’t matter. The regular season doesn’t matter. Whatever happens you’ve got to be ready for this time, this year, the physical strength. That’s what’s important.

“Yup. For me it was championship or bust, that’s what I feel, that’s what I always feel, so a wasted year for me.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/kyle-lowry-raptors-season-wasted-year/feed/02018 NBAECLEVELAND, OH - MAY 5: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors looks on against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semi Finals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs on May 5, 2018 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)DeMar DeRozan And Kyle Lowry Voice Their Support For Dwane Caseyhttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-kyle-lowry-voice-support-dwane-casey/
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As reports were surfacing that the Raptors are “strongly leaning” towards firing Dwane Casey, All-Stars DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry stressed their support for Toronto’s current head coach. Players cleared out their lockers on Tuesday after getting swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Semis. During their respective exit interviews, DeRozan and Lowry […]

As reports were surfacing that the Raptors are “strongly leaning” towards firing Dwane Casey, All-Stars DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry stressed their support for Toronto’s current head coach.

Players cleared out their lockers on Tuesday after getting swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Semis.

During their respective exit interviews, DeRozan and Lowry both talked about how instrumental Casey has been in their careers, per Blake Murphy of The Athletic:

“I been with Case 7 years. He put the trust in me, he believed in me, he let me be a 21-year-old kid, going out there, play freely. A lot of my success, all of my success, I’ve gotta credit to Case.” – DeRozan

After being swept by the Cavs in consecutive seasons, the Raptors are reportedly “strongly leaning” toward firing head coach Dwane Casey. According to TSN’s Josh Lewenberg, there’s a sense within the organization that Toronto needs “a new direction and a different voice.” Sources: Raptors are leaning towards making a coaching change https://t.co/LK5KijLljM pic.twitter.com/BEHKn2nsNX — Josh […]

The evaluation period is ongoing but, according to sources, the Raptors are strongly leaning towards making a coaching change.

If he’s let go or, more likely, he and the team mutually agree to part ways, it won’t be an indictment of Casey or what he’s accomplished in his seven seasons at the helm of a franchise he’s helped turn around.

After being swept out of the playoffs for the third time in four years – twice as the higher seed – the sense is it’s time for a new direction and a different voice.

Guard Rodney Hood was the only active player on the Cavaliers’ roster that did not log any minutes in their Game 4 closeout victory over the Raptors on Monday. But he apparently had the chance to. According to Jason Lloyd of The Athletic, head coach Tyronn Lue called on Hood to check in for LeBron […]

“That’s crazy,” Lue said ahead of Game 4, in which the Cavs will look for a second straight sweep of the Raptors. “I mean, to change a team who they said played iso basketball, to being top three, I guess, in offense and defense this year, the second best record in the NBA, like, it’s just, I don’t believe that one bit.

“I mean, it would be absurd to make a move like that.”

Lue was caught off guard during his pregame news conference when told the Pistons parted ways with coach and team vice president Stan Van Gundy. Lue played for a part of one season under Van Gundy with the Orlando Magic, and said Van Gundy reached out to him earlier this year when Lue stepped away for personal health issues.

“It’s just crazy to see that you let a great guy like Stan go,” Lue said. “I’ve always thought Stan was a great coach.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/tyronn-lue-absurd-raptors-fire-dwane-casey/feed/02018 NBAECLEVELAND, OH - MAY 7: Head Coach Dwane Casey of the Toronto Raptors speaks to the media after Game Four of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2018 NBA Playoffs on May 7, 2018 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)DeMar DeRozan: ‘Maybe [Cavs] Just Got Our Number’https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/demar-derozan-maybe-cavs-just-got-number/
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“Maybe they just got our number,” he said. “Things just don’t go right for us. We couldn’t get it done. We had opportunity after opportunity after opportunity.”

Pushed to the max for seven games by Indiana in the first round, the Cavs took care of Toronto quickly — again.

“They were a well-balanced, put-together team this year,” James said, praising a team he has tormented. “They’ve built a very good team that can succeed in the postseason. I felt coming into the series this would be a tough challenge for us.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/demar-derozan-maybe-cavs-just-got-number/feed/02018 Getty ImagesCLEVELAND, OH - MAY 7: DeMar DeRozan #10 of the Toronto Raptors reacts during the second half of Game 4 of the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on May 7, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Raptors 128-93. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** DeMar DeRozanReport: NBA Executives Anticipating Dwane Casey Firinghttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/report-nba-executives-anticipating-dwane-casey-firing/
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Toronto Raptors coach Dwane Casey may potentially become the first coach to set a franchise’s single-season wins record and still end up on the hot seat, per The Ringer‘s Kevin O’Connor: “Executives around the league anticipate that the Raptors will make a coaching change, though there are no guarantees after Toronto’s success this regular season. […]

Toronto Raptors coach Dwane Casey may potentially become the first coach to set a franchise’s single-season wins record and still end up on the hot seat, per The Ringer‘s Kevin O’Connor:

“Executives around the league anticipate that the Raptors will make a coaching change, though there are no guarantees after Toronto’s success this regular season. In addition to the candidates being interviewed by other teams with openings, the Raptors have three internal candidates—assistants Nick Nurse and Rex Kalamian, and G League coach Jerry Stackhouse—that could be promoted to head coach.”

The Raptors won a franchise-best 59 games this year; however, O’Connor implied that success may have to do less with Casey and more to do with assistant Nick Nurse:

“Nurse spoke with the Suns and Hornets about their head-coach vacancies, according to multiple reports, and is widely considered by executives to be one of the best assistants in the league. Nurse, not Casey, is credited with leading the charge in changing the offensive system. If Casey is told to take care, Nurse should be the favorite for his position.”

Despite Toronto’s regular season success–the Raptors have won at least 48 games in each of the previous five years–its only advanced to the Eastern Confernce Finals once since Casey took over.

The Raptors look to keep their season alive in game four of the Eastern Conference Semifinals tonight at 8:30 p.m.

The NBA has fined Toronto Raptors President Masai Ujiri $25,000 for walking on the court during Game 3 “to verbally confront game officials.” Ujiri was apparently angered by a call that went against the Raps towards the end of the first half. A basket by forward Serge Ibaka was originally counted and then waved off […]

His late-game heroics have become so common that coach Tyronn Lue’s only instructions during late timeouts is to pick which player is going to pass it to James.

“You just get the ball to ’Bron at the end of the game, he has been producing for us all season, his whole career,” Lue said Sunday as the Cavaliers got ready for Monday’s Game 4. “If the game is tied or the game is on the line, we got a great person to go to down the stretch.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/lebron-james-jr-drake-talk-trash-prior-game-4/feed/02018 Vaughn RidleyTORONTO, ON - MAY 01: Singer Drake talks to LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers from his court side seat in the first half of Game One of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Toronto Raptors during the 2018 NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre on May 1, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)Kobe Bryant: Must Stop LeBron James from Going Lefthttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/kobe-bryant-must-stop-lebron-james-going-left/
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Kobe Bryant: “I think the tempo that he is playing at. He is able to control the tempo of the game. The game, especially in the playoffs, is all built on momentum shifts. What he has been able to do in these playoffs is control the momentum. When it shifts, how it shifts. When teams go on big runs, he’s been able to stop momentums. It’s a very difficult thing to do, and he’s been able to dominate that this postseason.”

On how LeBron has evolved in recent years

KB: “The way he is being used right now is a little different than how he has been used in the past. I think he is understanding the importance of conserving energy. In the past they ran a lot of screen and rolls for him, a lot of angles, he’s out 35-40 feet from the hoop, penetrating into the paint. You don’t really see that too much now. You see him operate at the elbows, you see him operating below the free throw line, deep corner. From those positions, he can take one or two dribbles, raise up and shoot. He can get to his spots, he can get to that right shoulder very comfortably. He’s certainly evolved that in his game; he didn’t have that when he first came into the league.”

On how he would try to slow down LeBron

KB: “For one thing, you have to stop letting him go left. Every big shot that he makes is going left. He’s remarkable about getting to that left hand, raise up and shoot. That’s the first thing I would do—disrupt his ability to go left. It’s amazing, all those shots are either coming right shoulder from the post or off the dribble with his left hand. That’s the first thing I would do, make him do something different besides going to that left.”

“It’s extremely hard, extremely hard,” DeRozan said. “I just want to be out there helping my team, way more than anything. It definitely sucks to be watching … we’ve got to give credit to those guys. We fought hard and gave ourselves a chance to win.”

Casey did not discuss his decision to bench DeRozan after the game. The coach did hint that the decision wasn’t just about DeRozan’s poor shooting. He was a team-worst minus-23 on the night.

“Even when you are not shooting well you can defend and do things to help us win, but those nights are going to happen,” Casey said. “He had a tough night. He wasn’t the reason we lost. We are professionals, he’s a pro. He has had tough games before, he’ll bounce back. But we have one more game, our pride is on the line, basically our season is on the line, but I think he’ll bounce back.”

Seven years ago, Dwane Casey was an assistant in Dallas and helped devise a defense that shut down LeBron James in the NBA Finals, something King James attributes to him not yet being a “complete basketball player.”

“I wasn’t that good of a player in that series,” James said following the Cavs’ 128-110 Game 2 win in Toronto.

“I wasn’t a complete basketball player. Dwane Casey drew up a game plan against me in that ’11 series I played Dallas to take away things I was very good at and try to make me do things I wasn’t very good at.”

LeBron has amassed 69 points, 27 assists and 19 boards in Cleveland’s two wins against the top-seeded Raptors.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/lebron-james-wasnt-complete-basketball-player-2011-nba-finals/feed/02011 Getty ImagesMIAMI, FL - JUNE 12: LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat stands for the performance of the National Anthem against the Dallas Mavericks in Game Six of the 2011 NBA Finals at American Airlines Arena on June 12, 2011 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)Kevin Love: LeBron James Predicted His Ridiculous Game 2 Shotshttps://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/kevin-love-lebron-james-predicted-ridiculous-game-2-shots/
https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/kevin-love-lebron-james-predicted-ridiculous-game-2-shots/#respondFri, 04 May 2018 10:55:49 +0000https://www.slamonline.com/?p=494251

LeBron James‘ 43 points, 14 assists and 8 rebounds stunned the Raptors and their fans Thursday night, but prior to Game 2, Kevin Love says his superstar teammate told him precisely what he was about to unleash on Toronto.

James dismissed the Raptors’ defense with an array of absurd fadeaway jumpers in the fourth quarter, giving the Cleveland Cavaliers a commanding 2-0 series lead.

Cavaliers' Kevin Love said LeBron James told him Thursday morning he would attack mismatches w/ fadeaway jumpers over each shoulder, then did it in Game 2: "He actually called his shots this morning. That's just one of the examples I could use of how locked in he was." pic.twitter.com/PBJXIkOhKr

“This morning you could just sense it,” Love said. “He knew what was at stake, he knew us getting another win here was going to be huge for us. He came out and he played that way from the jump. You could just sense that he was going to have a special night.”

James, meanwhile, gave credit to Love, who shot 11 for 21 and missed matching his career playoff high by one point.

“It was great to see that performance out of him,” James said. “He’s our All-Star power forward. That’s a huge game for him.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/kevin-love-lebron-james-predicted-ridiculous-game-2-shots/feed/02018 Getty ImagesTORONTO, ON - MAY 03: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers goes up for a shot in the second half of Game Two of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Toronto Raptors during the 2018 NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre on May 3, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)Kendrick Perkins Says Drake Started the Trash Talkhttps://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/kendrick-perkins-says-drake-started-trash-talk/
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Cavs backup center Kendrick Perkins got into it with Raptors global ambassador and courtside fixture Drake at halftime and following Game 1 Tuesday night, as the two exchanged words near Toronto’s bench and had to be separated.

According to the 33-year-old veteran, Drizzy got upset when he overheard him (accurately) predicting a Cleveland victory in the second-round playoff series opener.

In a text message to ESPN, Kendrick Perkins says: “What happened was I was talking to my old teammate Serge (Ibaka) walking into halftime telling him ‘We about to win this game,’ and Drake butted in talking shit to me. So I said something back to him.” https://t.co/sJ3Ntx6zVy

“He said something slick, so I said something back: ‘Sit your ass down and watch the game.'”

In a comment on an Instagram post Tuesday night, Drake claimed, “I just said I like the hem on his capris.”

When Perkins exited the Cavs’ locker room for good Tuesday night, a member of the team’s security staff asked him if he wanted to be escorted to the team bus in case he might have another run-in with Drake along the way.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/kendrick-perkins-says-drake-started-trash-talk/feed/02018 Vaughn RidleyTORONTO, ON - APRIL 25: Singer Drake reacts from his courtside seat during the first half of Game Five between the Washington Wizards and the Toronto Raptors in Round One of the 2018 NBA playoffs at Air Canada Centre on April 25, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)Post Up: Cavs Steal Game 1 In Toronto, Warriors Take Big Lead Over Pelicanshttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/post-up-lebron-cavs-comeback-raptors-warriors-steph-curry-return/
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Cavaliers 113, Raptors 112 (Cavaliers lead 1-0) — OT Man, what a game. The Raptors looked like they were going to run away with Game 1 in front of their home crowd before a 38-point second quarter for the Cavs made this a close one at the half. Toronto threatened to break away in both […]

Man, what a game. The Raptors looked like they were going to run away with Game 1 in front of their home crowd before a 38-point second quarter for the Cavs made this a close one at the half. Toronto threatened to break away in both the third and fourth quarters, taking double-digit leads on multiple occasions only to have Cleveland fight right back.

As regulation wound down, the Cavs made their big push. Down 92-82 after a Delon Wright three early in the final frame, it was the non-LeBron Cavs — like Kevin Love (7 points, 13 rebounds), J.R. Smith (20 points on 5 threes) and Tristan Thompson (14 points, 12 rebounds) — that stepped up to bring Cleveland within striking distance. Then LeBron (26 points on 12-of-30 shooting, 11 rebounds, 13 assists) started to get going himself, and tied it up at 105 with 30 seconds left with one of his patented fadeaways.

Still the Raptors had a chance to win it before going to overtime. After Fred VanVleet’s three clanged off the rim, Toronto missed multiple putbacks that would have likely given them a Game 1 W. LeBron also had a chance to win it in regulation, but missed. Instead, it went on to overtime where the Cavs took an early lead on a Kyle Korver (19 points on 5 threes) triple and never looked back.

Down 113-112 with the shot clock off, though, the Raptors had another opportunity for the win. However, DeMar DeRozan (22 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists) passed it out to VanVleet who missed once again from deep. Thompson grabbed the game-clinching rebound and the Air Canada Centre crowd — and the Raptors — were left stunned and without homecourt advantage.

Warriors 121, Pelicans 116 (Warriors lead 2-0)

With Playoff Rondo (22 points, 7 rebounds, 12 assists, 5 steals) in full force and strong play from Anthony Davis (25 points, 15 rebounds) and Jrue Holiday (24 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists), the Pelicans had a real chance to swing momentum in their favor by stealing a game in Oakland. But, with Steph Curry (28 points in 27 minutes) making his long-awaited return and Kevin Durant (29 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists) knocking down shot after shot down the stretch, it just wasn’t meant to be.

A sloppy, back-and-forth first quarter ended with New Orleans taking a small lead which disappeared by halftime when Klay Thompson (10 points on 4-of-20 shooting) drilled an almost-impossible buzzer-beating three off the glass. The Pelicans were able to push back ahead at points yet couldn’t get any separation not only due to Steph and KD being locked in but also because Draymond Green (20 points, 9 assists, 12 rebounds) and Andre Iguodala (15 points, 8 rebounds) helped out with the scoring load.

Even with that said, the Pelicans found themselves down just 99-98 with over seven minutes to play after Rondo drilled one of his three triples on the night. But Iguodala responded with a quick bucket and the Dubs rolled off a 11-0 run that essentially put New Orleans away. The real capper was an Iggy three-point play consisting of a fastbreak dunk that bounced 20 feet over the rim before falling right through the hoop. It sent Oracle into a frenzy and made it clear that the Warriors were going to head on the road up 2-0.

Definitely a better showing for New Orleans than in Game 1 but it just wasn’t enough. This was as close to 100 percent as the Warriors have been in weeks and they were downright scary at points. The Pelicans are going to need to step it up another level going forward — especially on defense — if they’re going to have a chance. It would also help to get to the free throw line a bit more (only nine attempts on the night).

“I’m not thinking about Toronto right now until tomorrow. I’m ready to go home. Can we? I’m tired. I want to go home.”

James delivered yet another superhuman effort Sunday afternoon to eliminate the Pacers in a 105-101 victory, scoring 45 points to go along with nine rebounds, seven assists and four steals in 43 minutes.

The only thing that kept the 33-year-old from playing the entire game was a brief bout of leg cramps in the second half.

“Amazing,” Indiana’s Victor Oladipo said of James. “He did what he always does. It’s not really shocking. He’s the best in the world, and that’s what the best does and now I gotta work to get on that level.”

He fought through the fatigue. He had no choice.

“It felt like a Game 7,” James said. “It was like, your mind is thinking like, ‘OK, besides the two I played in the Finals, you start thinking like, is this it? Could this be it?’ That’s just human nature. And then the other side of my brain was like, ‘Let’s go make something happen. Let’s go, that’s what you here for. You’re here to make plays, you’re the leader.’”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/lebron-james-im-burnt-right-now/feed/02018 NBAECLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 29: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the game against the Indiana Pacers in Game Seven of Round One of the 2018 NBA Playoffs on April 29, 2018 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)John Wall: ‘We Love Our Chances’https://www.slamonline.com/nba/john-wall-love-chances/
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When asked to gauge his team’s chances of returning Sunday to Toronto for Game 7, John Wall answered with assurance.

“We love our chances,” Wall said. “We’re very confident. . . . It’s the best out of three, and for somebody to win the series they got to win on the road.”

The Wizards had a chance to do just that in Game 5 but squandered their best showing — albeit on a poor shooting night — in enemy territory.

“We just missed some shots. We feel like we got a lot of good ones,” Beal said about the Wizards’ 41.1-percent shooting and 5-for-26 mark from three-point range. “For the most [part], we feel like we didn’t shoot [well] or play a great game and still had an opportunity to win. They just made some bigger shots and big momentum plays down the stretch that really hurt us in the fourth.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/john-wall-love-chances/feed/02018 NBAETORONTO, CANADA - APRIL 25: John Wall #2 of the Washington Wizards goes to the basket against the Toronto Raptors in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2018 NBA Playoffs on April 25, 2018 at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Ron Turenne/NBAE via Getty Images)John Wall: Drake Said Raptors Would Sweep Wizardshttps://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/john-wall-drake-said-raptors-sweep-wizards/
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The Raptors and Wizards are deadlocked at two games apiece, a far cry from Drake’s boastful prediction to John Wall that Toronto would sweep Washington in their first-round playoff battle.

Wall told reporters that he’s looking forward to yapping back at the superstar rapper when Game 5 tips off Wednesday night in The Six.

John Wall says he is looking forward to seeing Drake in Toronto: “He told me he was going to be here [for Game 3]. He didn’t show up. He told me we were getting swept. He said he had the broom for us.” When asked if he can listen to Drake right now, Wall replied, "no." pic.twitter.com/CFCEmz7BJs

“Yeah, you know I am. For sure,” Wall said when asked if he is looking forward to seeing Drake now that the Wizards have evened the series as it shifts back to Toronto. “I told him to be here for Game 3. He told me he was going to be here. He didn’t show up. He told me we were getting swept. He said he had the broom for us.”

Drake, who is a global ambassador for the Raptors, has talked smack to several Wizards players from his courtside seat. Wall and Drake have engaged in friendly trash-talking on social media and during the first two games in Toronto.

“My reaction is, we did what we were supposed to do; we came home and won two games,” Wall said of his response to Drake’s sweep comment. “My arguments with him ain’t really about the game of basketball — we just be out there having fun. But at the same time, we [have] a focus that we are trying to go in there and win Game 5. I want him to know that they weren’t going to sweep us.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/john-wall-drake-said-raptors-sweep-wizards/feed/02018 Getty ImagesWASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: John Wall #2 of the Washington Wizards celebrates after scoring against the Toronto Raptors in the first half during Game Four of Round One of the 2018 NBA Playoffs at Capital One Arena on April 22, 2018 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)Post Up: Pelicans Win Thriller In Portland While Celtics And Raptors Roll At Homehttps://www.slamonline.com/postup/post-up-pelicans-jrue-holiday-anthony-davis/
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Raptors 130, Wizards 119 (Raptors lead 2-0) Washington cut the Toronto lead to 108-103, but this was as close as the Wizards would get in a game the Raptors controlled from start to finish. Toronto raced out to a 17-point lead after the first quarter and finished the first half with 76 points, a franchise […]

Washington cut the Toronto lead to 108-103, but this was as close as the Wizards would get in a game the Raptors controlled from start to finish. Toronto raced out to a 17-point lead after the first quarter and finished the first half with 76 points, a franchise playoff record. The Wizards hung out around and made a late push but DeMar DeRozan (37 points) and some big plays from the bench kept the home team in control.

After getting the proverbial monkey off their back with a Game 1 win at home, the Raptors took a commanding advantage in a series they were big favorites in. Jonas Valanciunas (19 points, 14 rebounds) and C.J. Miles (18 points off the bench) contributed offensively while Serge Ibaka (10 points, 9 rebounds) essentially secured the win with a massive block on Bradley Beal.

John Wall (29 points, 9 assists) was the only Washington starter to do much scoring, evidenced by both Beal and Markieff Morris sporting +/- ratings of worse than -30. Four Wizards reserves scored in double figures including Ty Lawson (14 points, 8 assists) who made his team debut Tuesday after spending the whole season playing for the Shandong Golden Stars in China.

Celtics 120, Bucks 106 (Celtics lead 2-0)

Like they did in Game 1, the Celtics used a big first quarter to take an early double-digit lead in this one. However, unlike in Sunday’s matinee, Boston was able to cruise in the second half as Milwaukee made a quick run to tie it up at 35 apiece in the second quarter but faded away after the break.

Giannis Antetokounmpo (30 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists) and Khris Middleton (25 points) combined to score over half of the Bucks’ points, as Jabari Parker (held scoreless in 10 minutes of playing time) was basically a no-show and Eric Bledsoe (12 points on 13 shots) was uneven. Milwaukee was also just 7-of-17 at the free throw line and committed 15 turnovers.

Boston also got big performances from two starters, Jaylen Brown (30 points) and Terry Rozier (23 points, 8 rebounds), but was aided by solid play from up and down the roster. Marcus Morris scored 18 points off the bench while Shane Larkin and Greg Monroe hit some key shots.

If the Bucks are going to be able to make this series a competitive one, they’re going to have to force Boston mistakes and get more from Parker. Forcing turnovers was a staple of Milwaukee’s play this season and helped the Bucks stick with Boston in Game 1, but the Celtics are just too well-coached to lose when they aren’t thrown out of rhythm on offense.

Pelicans 111, Trail Blazers 102 (Pelicans lead 2-0)

Man, where to begin. In what was by far the best game of the night, Portland almost was able to pull off a huge comeback but just didn’t have an answer for the Jrue Holiday–Anthony Davis combo down the stretch and couldn’t grab a defensive rebound. Also, New Orleans’ former Bulls — Rajon Rondo (16 points, 10 rebounds, 9 assists) and Nikola Mirotic (17 points, 8 rebounds) — knocked down some huge threes to put the Blazers away.

Building off their great games in Saturday’s win, Jrue (33 points, 9 assists) and AD (22 points, 13 rebounds) torched Portland in the pick-and-roll all night, taking advantage of Jusuf Nurkic’s limited playing time due to both injury and ineffectiveness. They both crashed to the rim hard when given a lane but were also able to step out and hit jumpers as well. Playoff Rondo made another appearance and did his thing, like make insane passes and beat defenders off the dribble with ease.

As for Portland, it’s just a devastating loss. It’s possible to lose the first two games at home and come back to win a best-of-seven series — the Celtics did it against Rondo and Mirotic’s Bulls last postseason — but it’s not easy. It wasn’t going to be easy for the Blazers to D up Davis with a healthy and fully engaged Nurkic, so anything else makes that task almost impossible.

And if Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum (combined 39 points on 16-of-39 shooting with 9 turnovers) continue to struggle with their shots and keep turning the ball over? Forget it.

76ers 132 (49-30), Cavaliers 130 (49-31) With postseason implications abound, the 76ers held off the Cavs in a thriller. With the win, Philly overtakes Cleveland for the 3 seed in the East, leading the Cavs for that spot by half a game with three to play. The story in this game was the two stars, […]

With postseason implications abound, the 76ers held off the Cavs in a thriller. With the win, Philly overtakes Cleveland for the 3 seed in the East, leading the Cavs for that spot by half a game with three to play. The story in this game was the two stars, Ben Simmons and LeBron James, who each poured on triple-doubles. Simmons nearly had one at the half as the Sixers raced out to a 23-point lead at the break. He finished with 27 points, 15 rebounds, and 13 assists. LeBron had 44-11-and-11, as well as this dunk:

This was more than just a 19-point win for the Raptors — it gave Toronto a franchise-record 57 wins on the season and locked up the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. Serge Ibaka scored a season-high 25 points to lead the Raptors, while DeMar DeRozan had 12 points and eight assists. On the other end, Indiana had a miserable game offensively, shooting under 30 percent with no starters reaching double figures in scoring. Glen Robinson III‘s 12 points were a team high.

Johnathan Motley‘s three with 10 seconds to go sent the game to overtime, but Reggie Jackson outscored the Mavericks in OT to lead the Pistons to the win. Jackson scored six in overtime and 24 overall to pace Detroit, while Andre Drummond had a typical one of performances with 19 points and 16 rebounds. Motley had 26 for Dallas.

Malik Monk scored 26 points and Frank Kaminsky had 21 to lead the Hornets in a contest that was never close. With both teams long out of the playoff race, the Magic used the game as an opportunity to give some of their younger guys some work. Though D.J. Augustin led Orlando with 19, Jamel Artis, Khem Birch, and Rodney Purvis each had 12.

The Wizards picked the worst time to go into a slump. With their fourth-straight loss, Washington has fallen into the 8 seed in the Eastern Conference race with just two games to play. They led by six midway through the fourth quarter before the Hawks went on an 11-0 run to take a lead they would never relinquish. Taurean Prince had six points in that stretch and led the Hawks with 23 points. Bradley Beal had 32 for the Wizards.

Damyean Dotson had the best game of his young career, scoring 30 points and grabbing 11 rebounds to lead the Knicks in a rout of the Heat. Luke Kornet also had a career high with 17 of his own. Despite the loss, Miami is still a half game ahead of the Bucks for sixth in the East with two games remaining. Goran Dragic led the Heat with 15 points.

Bogdan Bogdanovic hit a pull-up jumper with just over a second to go to lift the Kings over the Grizzlies in a game that featured five lead changes in the final minute. Bogdanovic’s shot came just seconds after Dillon Brooks had put the Grizzlies ahead on a three, which came 10 seconds after Justin Jackson put the Kings up with a three. MarShon Brooks had 23 to lead all scorers and Willie Cauley-Stein had 18 for the Kings.

Anthony Davis scored 33 points and 11 rebounds and Nikola Mirotic had 31-and-16 as the Pelicans have now won consecutive games after a four-game skid the last couple weeks. Marquese Chriss had 23 and Josh Jackson scored 22 to lead the Suns. The Pelicans, Spurs, and Thunder are now tied for the 5 seed in the West.

With the Timberwolves fighting for their playoff lives, Jeff Teague came through with 25 points and eight assists to lead Minnesota over the Lakers. The Timberwolves are now half a game ahead of the Nuggets for the final playoff spot in the West, but are somehow still only a game and a half out of the 4 spot. This was their final road game of the regular season and will finish with home games against Memphis and Denver. Josh Hart and Julius Randle each had 20 for the Lakers.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/post-up-sixers-raptors-win-highlights/feed/02018 Getty ImagesPHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 6: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers dunks the ball past LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second quarter at the Wells Fargo Center on April 6, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Cavaliers 132-130. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)Post Up: Raptors Inch Closer To Securing Top Seed In Easthttps://www.slamonline.com/postup/post-up-raptors-celtics-1-seed-east/
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Raptors 96 (56-22), Celtics 78 (53-25) The Raptors moved one giant step closer to locking up the 1 seed in the East with a win over the Celtics at home. Toronto now leads Boston by three games with four to play and has matched a franchise record with 56 wins on the season. Neither team […]

The Raptors moved one giant step closer to locking up the 1 seed in the East with a win over the Celtics at home. Toronto now leads Boston by three games with four to play and has matched a franchise record with 56 wins on the season. Neither team shot particularly well, but the Raptors were able to shut down the Celtics — Boston shot 33 percent overall, 14 percent from three, and committed 16 turnovers. DeMar DeRozan scored 16 points to lead the Raptors and Marcus Morris had 21 for the Celtics.

The 76ers won their 12th consecutive game and in doing so officially knocked the Pistons out of the playoff race. JJ Redick hit five of his seven three-point attempts and shot 10-13 overall en route to 25 points to lead the Sixers. Marco Belinelli added 19 off the bench and Philly continued to roll without Joel Embiid. The Pistons, who trailed most of the night, tried to claw their way back into it in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Sixers 37-27, but could not close the deficit. Anthony Tolliver led Detroit with 25 points. With Detroit’s loss, the Bucks became the final team into the playoffs out of the East.

With both teams long out of the playoff race, the focus turned to the younger players. Though Aaron Gordon had 20 to lead the way for Orlando, Khem Birch, Jamel Artis, and Rodney Purvis combined for 35 points and all played more than 20 minutes. Jalen Jones had 16 points and seven rebounds to lead the Mavericks.

The Heat dominated the second quarter and never relinquished the lead as they blew out the Hawks in Atlanta. Josh Richardson scored 19 points and Kelly Olynyk hit five threes to score 19 of his own (he also earned a $1 million bonus by playing his 1,700th minute of the season). Taurean Prince had 20 to lead the Hawks, who committed 15 turnovers and shot only 37 percent for the game.

The Pelicans continued to cling to their playoff spot behind 30 points from E’Twaun Moore on 7-10 three-point shooting and 28 points and 12 rebounds from Anthony Davis. New Orleans remains a game ahead of Denver with four remaining for the Western Conference’s 8 seed. MarShon Brooks had 25 for the Grizzlies and went 5-10 from three.

The Spurs lost their seventh straight road game, this one coming in overtime and possibly imperiling their playoff positioning. San Antonio still holds the 5 seed in the West, but is only a game and a half out of the 9 spot with three games to go. Kyle Kuzma led all scorers with 30 points. He also went 5-9 from three and the Lakers shot 54 percent from deep as a team. LaMarcus Aldridge had 28 points and eight rebounds for the Spurs.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/postup/post-up-raptors-celtics-1-seed-east/feed/02018 Vaughn RidleyTORONTO, ON - APRIL 4: Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball as Marcus Morris #13 of the Boston Celtics defends during the first half of an NBA game at Air Canada Centre on April 4, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)Chris Bosh Hopes For One More Opportunity To Suit Up 💯https://www.slamonline.com/nba/chris-bosh-feature-interview/
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Right before the 2008 Olympics kicked off in Beijing, China, five members of the USA Basketball National Team were waiting in California for a flight. LeBron James, Chris Paul, Dwight Howard, Deron Williams and Chris Bosh pulled up to a Wendy’s that was attached to a gas station. Bosh was heavily into making YouTube videos […]

Right before the 2008 Olympics kicked off in Beijing, China, five members of the USA Basketball National Team were waiting in California for a flight. LeBron James, Chris Paul, Dwight Howard, Deron Williams and Chris Bosh pulled up to a Wendy’s that was attached to a gas station. Bosh was heavily into making YouTube videos at the time and he filmed a part of their meal.

“We were just hanging out,” Bosh says with a laugh. He’s at Katsuya, a sushi restaurant right near Staples Center, a few hours before All-Star Saturday Night starts. “We had six hours before our flight. So we went to Best Buy, went to get some food and we were just hanging out. And I’m obsessed a little bit with filming stuff. So I showed it.”

It’s those little moments—just chillin’ and having a few laughs with teammates—that have been stripped from Bosh. The big man hasn’t played since 2016, when he was forced out of the game due to life-threatening blood clots in his lungs and in his legs. But the 11-time All-Star says his playing career isn’t over yet.

“I tell people that I never said I was done,” Bosh says. “I’m just letting everybody know that I’ve been a dad, I’ve been taking care of my family. That’s the first priority for me. I’ve been doing that and I’ve been working out. That’s what I do. I don’t play 5-on-5, but that’s always been my intent. That’s always been my goal—to get back. I haven’t been shy in letting people know that. I feel that I at least have to try. And if it doesn’t work out that’s fine.”

Before the career and life-threatening injuries, Bosh was one of the premier big men in the League. In five of his seven seasons with the Toronto Raptors, Bosh averaged at least 22.5 points per game. When he linked up with fellow Team USA teammates LeBron James and Dwyane Wade in Miami, the trio formed one of the best teams in NBA history, appearing in four-straight NBA Finals and winning two titles.

With the Heat, CB showed off the versatility and skillset that makes him a lock for the Hall of Fame. When things didn’t automatically click in Miami, head coach Erik Spoelstra depended on Bosh to accept a smaller role on offense and a bigger one on defense. The coaching staff asked the 6-11 Bosh to play center, step out and switch onto guards in pick-and-roll coverage and then get back to crash the glass. And they also asked him to expand his jumpshot.

“I played a lot of five in Toronto,” Bosh says. “We kinda had that feel back then—they were trying to peg us as the Phoenix of the East. We were playing that fast-paced kind of ball. A lot of threes at the time. It was a normal transition when Spo asked me to do it.”

Bosh became a knockdown midrange shooter. His jumper reached its peak in the 2012-13 season, when he connected on a highly efficient 52 percent of his midrange shots. After the Heat won the ‘chip that season, big men all around the NBA started getting more shots up. Take a look around the League today and every single new-school big is expanding their game to the 3-point line. Bosh, who put up 19.2 and 8.5 over the first 13 years of his career, helped influence an entire generation.

“You see how the game’s evolved,” he says. “Now I feel like I’m missing out. This is what I saw. Now it’s happening and it’s great for the younger generation. And it’s like, I got moves for that. You work a lifetime to play this style of basketball, and now it’s everywhere. It sucks to be a pioneer.”

Bosh, with a mix of vulnerability and pride, goes on to talk about how it’s difficult to see his guys from the 2003 draft class still being so successful. He says it’s “one of the tough parts” of being in his situation, but in true team-first fashion, he quickly adds that it’s “good to see those guys continue to affect the game.”

Bosh is still a team player, operating with the same combination of self-confidence and generosity that made him one of the best players in the NBA. And if he gets his way, one day soon we’ll see him back on the hardwood, helping another team to greatness.

–

Max Resetar is an Associate Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram.

Growing up in Rockford, Illinois, Fred VanVleet adopted an underdog mentality at a very young age. “It’s been like that my whole life,” VanVleet says. “Growing up with three brothers, with that many boys in the house, you’re always fighting for respect and attention.” As an All-State player, VanVleet spent four successful seasons at Wichita […]

Growing up in Rockford, Illinois, Fred VanVleet adopted an underdog mentality at a very young age.

“It’s been like that my whole life,” VanVleet says. “Growing up with three brothers, with that many boys in the house, you’re always fighting for respect and attention.”

As an All-State player, VanVleet spent four successful seasons at Wichita State, but went undrafted in 2016. After impressing at Summer League and in training camp, he landed an NBA contract and a roster spot with the Toronto Raptors.

During his rookie season, VanVleet split time between the NBA and the G League, appearing in just 37 games with the Raptors. At the time, it was hard to see how he would fit long-term. Kyle Lowry was entrenched as the team’s starting point guard, and behind him were Cory Joseph and Delon Wright.

Toronto re-signed Lowry and Serge Ibaka this offseason, but lost some of their depth when they traded Joseph and DeMarre Carroll, and watched PJ Tucker and Patrick Patterson leave in free agency. It meant an opportunity for VanVleet to earn minutes with the second unit in the 2017-18 campaign.

And the 24-year-old has taken full advantage, currently leading the Raptors in fourth quarter minutes (9.0). In a 34-point home win over the Cavaliers in January, VanVleet came off the bench and scored a career-high 22 points. Two weeks later, he set a new career-high with 25 points in a win over the Lakers. Through 71 games, he is averaging 8.8 points and 3.2 assists on 41 percent shooting from three.

To hear VanVleet describe his game, it feels like a perfect fit for what the Raptors need, a steady influence off the bench who can contribute on both ends and isn’t afraid of crunch time.

“I like to be a coach on the floor,” VanVleet says. “I like taking shots late and making plays late. It’s something I take a lot of pride in.”

Toronto enters the playoffs with a realistic shot at making a deep run. VanVleet and the team’s second unit will have to continue playing a significant role if they want to erase the disappointment of last year’s postseason, which ended in the second round with a four-game sweep to Cleveland.

The bench has become the best secret weapon in the League, blowing the doors off opposing team’s second units and giving Toronto’s starters plenty of rest in the fourth quarter. VanVleet believes the camaraderie between the guys off the court has helped them on it.

“We joke and laugh all day long,” VanVleet says. “That’s all we do, whether it’s on the bus, on the bench, during the game, that’s all we do. We crack jokes, have fun and laugh. We talk about everything. Nothing is off limits. It’s a pretty tight knit group. We’ve practiced together, we’ve spent summer leagues together. We spend a lot of time together.”

VanVleet, who has now made a habit of proving people wrong, is ready for the challenge ahead, and believes the younger guys on the team will support Lowry and DeMar DeRozan when the time comes.

“It gives us options and it gives us flexibility,” VanVleet says. “You saw when Kyle went down with an ankle injury [during the regular season]. In those situations, you want guys to be ready. The rotation might shorten towards the end of the season, but we’re playing and we’re getting experience. Guys will be ready to pop off the bench if we get an opportunity. We’ll be more seasoned as well with all the experience.”

As the resume grows, VanVleet is less motivated by the people who doubt him, and more driven by earning respect from players around the League.

“I’ve grown to the point where I don’t care about what people think about me,” VanVleet says. “You just want the respect of your peers. I care about what they think, they my teammates think, and what my coaches think. You want to earn that respect as a young player.”

He’ll be doing it for everyone who believed in him back home in Rockford, Illinois.

“It’s the place that raised me and made me,” VanVleet says. “It shaped me into the man that I’ve become. Where I come from, they don’t have the brightest lights in the world. But it’s home, so I’ll always view it in a positive light.”

—

Photos via Getty Images.

Alex Wong is a writer living in Toronto. Follow him on Twitter @steven_lebron.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/vanvleet-feature/feed/02018 NBAETORONTO, CANADA - JANUARY 26: Fred VanVleet #23 of the Toronto Raptors before the game against the Utah Jazz on January 26, 2018 at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Mark Blinch/NBAE via Getty Images)LeBron James: No Reminder Needed of ‘What My Teams Are Capable of Doing’https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/lebron-james-no-reminder-needed-teams-capable/
https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/lebron-james-no-reminder-needed-teams-capable/#respondThu, 22 Mar 2018 11:55:24 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=486624

The Cavs’ acting head coach [Larry Drew] said after a 132-129 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday “there is one game during the season that changes your team,” and, “tonight’s game might have done that for us.”

So, which is it? The turning point or just another night in the Association?

“We only got like 11 games left,” James said. “The season is almost over. So, we want to continue just to work our habits and we’ll see what happens.

“It’s a good win for us because of how depleted we are on our roster and everything that’s been going on,” James added. “It’s a good win for us against a very good opponent. But I don’t need to remind anybody about what my teams are capable of doing.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/lebron-james-no-reminder-needed-teams-capable/feed/02018 NBAECLEVELAND, OH - MARCH 21: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during a break in the action against the Toronto Raptors on March 21, 2018 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)Post Up: Dwight Howard Goes Off For 30-30 Line in Hornets Winhttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/post-up-30-30/
https://www.slamonline.com/nba/post-up-30-30/#respondThu, 22 Mar 2018 04:44:19 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=486581

Hornets 111 (31-41), Nets 105 (23-49) Dwight Howard had the NBA’s first 30-30 game in nearly eight years, scoring 32 points and grabbing 30 rebounds as the Hornets came back to win in Brooklyn. Charlotte used a 36-18 fourth quarter to complete the comeback, snapping a two-game losing streak and ending a five-game road trip […]

Dwight Howard had the NBA’s first 30-30 game in nearly eight years, scoring 32 points and grabbing 30 rebounds as the Hornets came back to win in Brooklyn. Charlotte used a 36-18 fourth quarter to complete the comeback, snapping a two-game losing streak and ending a five-game road trip at 2-3. D’Angelo Russell led the Nets with 19 points and five assists, but the Nets shot 41 percent for the game and were out-rebounded 68-46.

LeBron James scored 35 points, handed out 17 assists, and didn’t turn the ball over once to lead the Cavs in a masterful come-from-behind win over the likely 1 seed in the East. The Raptors led by 15 at halftime, but Cleveland out-scored Toronto 34-20 in the third quarter. The game stayed close even after the Cavs pulled ahead, but a Kevin Love three with 27 seconds left was the dagger, putting them up four. Kyle Lowry had 24 points and seven assists for the Raptors.

Six Philadelphia players scored in double figures, led by 15 each from Robert Covington, JJ Redick, Marco Belinelli, and Dario Saric in a balanced attack. The Sixers have now won four in a row as they close in on not only a playoff berth but home court advantage in the first round. The Grizzlies shot just 40 percent for the game, but got 16 points from Deyonta Davis.

When you shoot 61 percent and have seven players in double-figures, you have to like your chances. Nikola Jokic led the way for the Nuggets with 21 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, appropriately, on Serbian Heritage Night in Chicago. Cristiano Felicio had 16 for the Bulls.

DeAndre Jordan had a double-double in the first quarter and finished with 25 points and 22 rebounds to lead the Clippers over the Bucks. More concerning for Milwaukee, Giannis Antetokounmpo appeared to suffer an injury late in the first half and did not return in the second. Khris Middleton picked up the slack and scored 22 to lead the Bucks.

Anthony Davis scored six points in the final minute and 28 overall to lead the Pelicans. Davis also had 13 rebounds and five blocks in a dominant 35-minute performance. E’twaun Moore added 23 points. The Pacers were led by Victor Oladipo‘s 21 points and eight boards.

The Spurs appear to be back on track. San Antonio won its fifth in a row, following that awful 3-11 skid from a few weeks back. LaMarcus Aldridge had 27 points to lead the Spurs, while Bradley Beal and Kelly Oubre each had 21 to lead the Wizards. Washington now sits at sixth in the East, but just a half game out of fourth.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/post-up-30-30/feed/02018 Getty ImagesNEW YORK, NY - MARCH 21: Dwight Howard #12 of the Charlotte Hornets looks to take a shot against the Brooklyn Nets in the fourth quarter during their game at Barclays Center on March 21, 2018 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)DeMar DeRozan Has Only One Goal On His Mindhttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-interview/
https://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-interview/#respondWed, 21 Mar 2018 14:44:41 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=485902

On a recent cold and windy late February night, DeMar DeRozan sauntered into the Toronto Raptors‘ practice facility with a small entourage for his first solo SLAM cover shoot. The 28-year-old, four-time All-Star posed for hundreds of pictures, threw a football around with his friends, calmly answered questions, refused to big up himself, and said […]

On a recent cold and windy late February night, DeMar DeRozan sauntered into the Toronto Raptors‘ practice facility with a small entourage for his first solo SLAM cover shoot.

The 28-year-old, four-time All-Star posed for hundreds of pictures, threw a football around with his friends, calmly answered questions, refused to big up himself, and said the Raptors can win the NBA title this season.

So, how did we get here? How did DeRozan establish himself as a bonafide superstar, lead the Raptors to the very top of the standings in the Eastern Conference and establish his team as an unlikely championship contender?

Through sheer hard work, for one.

Dwane Casey, the Raptors’ head coach since June 2011, recalls encountering DeRozan for the first time as a “snotty-nosed second-year guy” with all the tools and talent in the world.

Casey credits DeRozan’s evolution mostly to him being a gym rat. DeMar routinely gets a workout in late in the evening, and has added critical elements to his game each offseason.

Now he’s a perennial All-Star “who should be in the conversation for MVP,” says Casey. “He has made himself into a superstar.”

Chris Farr has been DeRozan’s trainer since the 2009 NBA Draft. Farr says the Compton, CA, native typically doesn’t like working out with others, which DeMar confirmed.

DeRozan prefers the intimacy of an empty gym. He doesn’t care for others seeing just how hard he goes. He’s also at a point in his career where a mental edge holds more value than anything physical.

Farr, who also trains Damian Lillard, convinced the two All-Stars to shoot together last summer, the plan being that Dame’s superior outside marksmanship would force DeMar to concentrate a little bit more and get his competitive juices flowing.

“Everybody don’t have that Beyoncé Syndrome,” Farr says. “He had to work to get this good. He didn’t just wake up looking like Beyoncé—he had to work at it.”

For years, critics have pointed out DeRozan’s lack of three-point shooting as something that held him back, a theory he fought before eventually coming to the conclusion that it was a necessary part of his game.

“He always worked on three-pointers,” Farr says. “He just never chose to take them during the game, because he felt his mid-range [jumper] was so strong that he didn’t accept that he wasn’t a complete player without taking three-pointers.”

DeMar is now shooting and making the most threes in his career—hitting 32.7 percent of his attempts (a career high) and making over 1/game for the first time ever as well—and has the Raptors’ braintrust believing he’s just scratching the surface of his long-range potential.

“I think he can become one of the premier three-point shooters in the League,” Casey says. “And once he does that, that’ll be a huge step up in his skillset.”

Bruce Arthur, the Toronto Star‘s award-winning columnist and one of the most insightful Raptors observers, agrees that DeRozan’s growth and maturity as a player have been the result of a painstaking process.

“There are so few guys who’ve had a career arc like his,” Arthur says. “For his first four years, if you look at his per-minute numbers, he didn’t get better. He was athletic, and he worked hard, and he just spun his wheels and they never caught.”

DeRozan, the thinking goes, was far too predictable early on in his career, prone to repeatedly driving towards the hoop with tunnel vision and little feel for the game.

DeMar kept hitting the gym, improving his shooting and playmaking, and the 6-7, 220-pound shooting guard now has a command of the game that’s vaulted him into the rarefied air of the NBA’s elite.

DeRozan, who grew up in Los Angeles idolizing Kobe Bryant and cribbing elements of the Black Mamba’s game, now has his peers watching his every move. Today, headliners like Kevin Durant and rookies such as Frank Ntilikina study DeMar’s footwork and try to incorporate it into their own repertoires.

Nine seasons into his career, DeRozan holds many of Toronto’s most meaningful team records, and you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who would argue that he’s not already the greatest Raptor of all-time. Plus he’s shown a loyalty to the team and city that’s been rare, if not non-existent, among other stars who’ve donned a Toronto uniform. In the mid-90s, point guard Damon Stoudamire left—followed by Tracy McGrady, Vince Carter and Chris Bosh. Hell, even Antonio Davis didn’t want to stick around.

Vince’s run in Toronto is an especially interesting contrast. Carter’s relatively brief, six-year Raptors tenure was so immensely impactful—his talent, charisma and otherworldly athleticism put the Raptors on the NBA map—that it continues to loom large in the public’s imagination.

DeRozan, perhaps more by accumulation than intensity, has elevated himself above anything Carter and any other Raptors star who came before him was able to accomplish. Beyond inking a five-year, $139 million contract extension two summers ago, DeRozan has also wed himself to the city in a remarkable way.

“There’s a generation of basketball fans in this town who’ve grown up with DeMar DeRozan,” Arthur says, “watching DeMar build himself year after year—and not just build himself on the court, but become such an admirable guy off the court. Someone who truly loves the city, who truly stands up for the city, who truly wants to be a Raptor for his whole career.”

DeMar says he hasn’t given any serious thought to his legacy.

But when asked about the new documentary The Carter Effect, a smart examination of Vince’s impact on the Raptors and the city of Toronto that made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, DeRozan said he hopes to leave a similar mark on the only NBA franchise he’s ever known.

“Hopefully, 20 years from now, we can talk about something the team I’ve been a part of has done.”

Casey has no doubt about DeRozan’s standing in Toronto.

“His legacy is about winning. He’s done that; he’s the leader of our team. He has more franchise wins than any other [Raptor]. His numbers, as far as points scored and games won, will solidify his legacy in Toronto forever.”

Casey has been an assistant and head coach to some of the greatest players in NBA history—Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp in Seattle; Kevin Garnett in Minnesota; Jason Kidd and Dirk Nowitzki in Dallas—and thinks DeRozan will eventually be “in that conversation with those guys” and that he’s well on his way to the Hall of Fame.

“Time will be good to him, as he continues to grow. We’ll be talking about DeMar DeRozan’s name the same way we talk about Kevin Garnett, Dirk Nowitzki and those guys.”

In the meantime, DeRozan says that he’ll continue to improve as a player, with defense being a particular point of pride. The silky-smooth All-Star was quick to point out that the Raptors are a top-5 defensive team. (The Raps have the fourth-best defensive rating in the League; they were eighth last season.)

The night before our shoot, DeRozan had the unenviable task of checking Giannis Antetokounmpo in the post on a few possessions in one of the wildest games of the season, a 122-119 overtime loss to the visiting Milwaukee Bucks.

Antetokounmpo’s eyes lit up when he was asked about DeRozan and the season he’s having.

“Oh wow, unbelievable,” Antetokounmpo said. “Great player—his game is unbelievable. He’s carrying his team, and they’re doing a great job as a team.”

Casey thinks DeRozan has the athletic ability and toughness to be an elite defender.

“As long as my legs can move, and I’m playing this game, I’ll figure out some type of way to get better,” DeRozan says.

Kyle Lowry, the Raptors’ other All-Star and starting point guard, views DeRozan as the engine that makes the Raptors go. DeRozan is having an “MVP-type season,” according to Lowry.

“He’s spectacular, he’s getting better every year, and all I can do is appreciate what he’s been doing.”

Prior to re-signing on a three-year, $100-million deal last summer, there were whispers that Lowry wanted out of Toronto. He seems perfectly content now, even if his overall numbers (and DeRozan’s) have taken a slight dip this season. Lowry says the Raptors’ depth and unselfish play has made everyone’s life a little bit easier.

“My points are down; his points are down; everyone’s points are down,” Lowry says. “Because six or seven guys are averaging, like, 8 points. It’s a good team effort—we’re all out there doing our job and being on the same page. It’s been fun.”

Lowry doesn’t want to look too far ahead at potential postseason matchups with Boston and Cleveland, insisting that Toronto needs to focus on the current task at hand of compiling the best possible regular season record.

“We gotta get to that point, right now we’re just focusing on ourselves. If we get to those situations, then we’ll focus on those later.”

DeMar averaged a career-high 27.3 points last season—now, his points are down to 23.7, but he’s also dishing out a career-best 5.1 assists per night. It’s a mark of maturity and a growing trust in his teammates’ abilities.

“Everybody made a sacrifice,” DeRozan says. “Understanding some nights it’s going to be Kyle’s night, some nights it’ll be my night. Understanding that it takes more than just two guys to carry team. Every single guy on our team stepped up, from the No. 1 option to the 15th option. Every guy that steps on the court understands what they gotta do for us to win.”

Toronto’s bench is perhaps the most under-appreciated reason for their success this season.

Team president Masai Ujiri and the rest of the Raptors’ front-office has taken the long view over the years, patiently and cleverly constructing the deepest, most fun and most fearsome roster in franchise history.

Players like CJ Miles, Delon Wright, Fred VanVleet, Pascal Siakam and Jakob Poeltl—several of whom have spent time with Raptors 905, Toronto’s G League squad—have turned into valuable contributors, allowing the team’s superstar backcourt to carry less of the burden on a nightly basis and save their energy for what should be a long and grueling playoff journey.

They’ve now been sent packing by the Cleveland Cavaliers two years in a row, including a humiliating four-game sweep in the 2017 East semis. But Toronto’s players and coaches insist they’re not solely focused on dethroning LeBron James.

“One team at a time. Whoever we line up against, our job is to go out there and beat them,” DeRozan says. “I wouldn’t say we’re going out there looking to go against just one dude.”

The Raptors appeared to throw in the towel in their series against Cleveland last year, with DeRozan even jokingly offering $100 to anyone who could slow LeBron down.

This season, there remain causes for concern. They haven’t been very good in close games, and while their 21-16 record against teams above .500 is impressive, it certainly doesn’t stack up with teams like Houston (33-10 in such games) and Golden State (29-12).

And yet, the simple truth is that this is Toronto’s best shot at making history: Cleveland has been embroiled in turmoil all season, the Celtics are still figuring out exactly who they are, and no other serious challenger in the East has emerged.

When I asked if the Raptors have the requisite killer instinct, Casey hedged and said every team in the NBA has it to a degree. The challenge for the Raptors, according to Casey, is being mentally sharp enough each night and getting used to transitioning from “the hunter to the hunted.”

But he added that Toronto is “one of four teams” that can legitimately challenge for the Larry O’Brien trophy. “We’re one of the teams that I feel like can win it. Why not?”

If they are to ever shock the hoops world and reach the Finals, now would be the time to do so.

Before the photo shoot wrapped up, I had one final question for DeMar.

Can the Raptors, improbable as it may seem to those outside their locker room, win it all this season?

“Yes,” DeRozan responds. “If we didn’t think so, there’s no reason to be in this line of work. So, we definitely believe so.”

—

Marcel Mutoni is a News Editor at SLAM. Follow him on Twitter @marcel_mutoni.

With roughly 30 seconds remaining and the Raptors trailing the Thunder by two, DeMar DeRozan attacked the rim and appeared to get slapped on the arm by Corey Brewer. No call was made and DeRozan’s layup did not fall. Oklahoma City took advantage, eventually securing the 132-125 victory. DeMar was ejected for passionately protesting the […]

With roughly 30 seconds remaining and the Raptors trailing the Thunder by two, DeMar DeRozan attacked the rim and appeared to get slapped on the arm by Corey Brewer. No call was made and DeRozan’s layup did not fall. Oklahoma City took advantage, eventually securing the 132-125 victory.

DeMar was ejected for passionately protesting the no-call. He told reporters afterwards that Brewer “smacked the sh*t out of him.”

He smacked the sh*t out of me. He smacked me. He tried to smack me because I had a layup. Period. I got fouled…They need to do something [about the officiating]. It’s not just us, it’s every game. But tonight, come on man. That can’t happen. It can’t happen.

The Raptors and Thunder were tied up at 125 late in the fourth quarter today. Kyle Lowry had fouled out by the time that DeMar DeRozan drove to the rim with roughly 30 seconds remaining. He shook Corey Brewer with a behind-the-back dribble and made his way to the rim. Brewer recovered and caused DeRozan […]

The Raptors and Thunder were tied up at 125 late in the fourth quarter today. Kyle Lowry had fouled out by the time that DeMar DeRozan drove to the rim with roughly 30 seconds remaining. He shook Corey Brewer with a behind-the-back dribble and made his way to the rim. Brewer recovered and caused DeRozan to miss the layup. DeRozan thought he was fouled and passionately let referee Marc Davis know. Davis then gave DeRozan a technical.

When the Thunder were shooting their free throw for that ejection, Raps head coach Dwane Casey was also thrown out, even though it seemed like he didn’t say anything to the refs. The Thunder won the game by 7.

Raptors president Masai Ujiri told DeMar DeRozan that he could have a Kobe Bryant-esque career with the Toronto Raptors. ESPN’s Zach Lowe describes the mid-December meeting where Uriji explained his vision for DeRozan to define the franchise for DeRozan’s entire career. It's OK to believe in the Raptors: on the transformation of a team, and a […]

Ujiri told DeRozan he could be Toronto’s Kobe — a lifetime player who defines a franchise and, maybe, brings it championship glory. […]

“When everyone has that kind of confidence in you — that you can carry a franchise — it gives you that extra confidence,” DeRozan says. “For them to say I could be in [Kobe’s] position — it was an honor accepting that fully.”

Raptors 121 (47-17), Pistons 119 (29-36) (OT) DeMar DeRozan scored 42 points, assisted on the game-winner in overtime, and provided the highlight of the game with an emphatic dunk in the closing seconds of regulation. All that made Toronto the first team in the NBA to clinch a playoff spot, despite the Raptors trailing by […]

DeMar DeRozan scored 42 points, assisted on the game-winner in overtime, and provided the highlight of the game with an emphatic dunk in the closing seconds of regulation. All that made Toronto the first team in the NBA to clinch a playoff spot, despite the Raptors trailing by as many as 17 in this one. Blake Griffin had 31 points and Andre Drummond had 10 points and 21 rebounds for the Pistons, but a jumper from Fred VanVleet as time ran down in overtime lifted the Raptors to the narrow victory.

Rudy Gobert, Donovan Mitchell, and Ricky Rubio all shined as the Jazz won their fourth in a row. Utah, a team that was once 17-26, is now closing in on the 8 seed in the West with 16 games remaining. Gobert had 23 points and 14 rebounds on 10-14 shooting, while Mitchell hit four threes, scored 20 points, and handed out six assists. As for Rubio, he filled the stat sheet with 18 points, seven assists, and six rebounds. Myles Turner had 24 to lead the Pacers.

The Bulls nearly coughed up a 21-point lead but held on to hand the Grizzlies their 15th-straight loss — the longest in the NBA this season. Lauri Markkanen had 22 points in the win while Zach LaVine and Kris Dunn each had 21. Dillon Brooks had 29 points to lead Memphis.

While Memphis has the longest losing streak in the league, the Rockets grabbed the longest winning streak, earning their 17th in a row behind 26 points from James Harden. The Rockets made 14 threes (though they took 40 of them) to hold on through a hotly contested second half. Giannis Antetokounmpo went 12-20 from the field and scored 30 points for the Bucks.

Anthony Davis scored 17 points but left in the third quarter after rolling his ankle. Though he did not return to the game, x-rays came back negative. Davis’s injury did not stop New Orleans from winning its 10th in a row as Nikola Mirotic came off the bench to score 26 more and the Pelicans shot 57 percent as a team. Buddy Hield had 20 points for the Kings.

Aaron Gordon put the Magic ahead by a point on a layup with five seconds left, but Brook Lopez hit two free throws with less than a second to go to give the Lakers a thrilling win at Staples Center. Those two were also the scoring leaders for the game — Gordon had 28 and Lopez scored 27. Kyle Kuzma also had 20 points and 10 rebounds for the Lakers, who picked up their sixth win in seven games.

LeBron James went for 39 points, eight rebounds, and 10 assists to help the Cavaliers to their second win in a row. Cleveland led by 15 after the first quarter and withstood a second-half rally from a Denver team that came into the game 24-9 at home. Nikola Jokic had 36 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists to lead the Nuggets.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/post-up-demars-dunk/feed/02018 Dave ReginekDETROIT, MI - MARCH 07: DeMar DeRozan #10 of the Toronto Raptors controls the ball in front of Reggie Bullock #25 of the Detroit Pistons during O.T. of an NBA game at Little Caesars Arena on March 7, 2018 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. The Raptors defeat the Pistons 121-119. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images)DeMar DeRozan Scores 42 As Raptors Clinch A Playoff Spothttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-highlights-raptors-3-7/
https://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-highlights-raptors-3-7/#respondThu, 08 Mar 2018 04:27:05 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=483655

DeMar DeRozan did more than just score 42 points on Wednesday. In the Raptors‘ 121-119 overtime win over the Pistons, DeRozan went for 42 on 16-28 shooting, assisted Fred VanVleet on the game-winning shot, and gave us the play of the game on this dunk: We’re going to overtime, but not before DeMar DeRozan did […]

And with that win, Toronto is now the first team in the NBA to clinch a postseason berth. The Raptors are 47-17 on the season and sit 2.5 games ahead of the Celtics for the best record in the Eastern Conference.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-highlights-raptors-3-7/feed/02018 NBAEAUBURN HILLS, MI - MARCH 7: DeMar DeRozan #10 of the Toronto Raptors drives to the basket against the Detroit Pistons on March 7, 2018 at The Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images)DeMar DeRozan Opens Up About Struggles With Mental Healthhttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-opens-struggles-mental-health/
https://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-opens-struggles-mental-health/#respondSat, 03 Mar 2018 20:16:06 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=482922

Raptors All-Star DeMar DeRozan recently shed light on his struggles with mental health, telling the Toronto Star that “it’s one of them things that no matter how indestructible we look like we are, we’re all human at the end of the day.” In an interview with ESPN (video above), DeRozan further addressed the subject and […]

Raptors All-Star DeMar DeRozan recently shed light on his struggles with mental health, telling the Toronto Star that “it’s one of them things that no matter how indestructible we look like we are, we’re all human at the end of the day.”

In an interview with ESPN (video above), DeRozan further addressed the subject and highlighted his goal of helping others:

You get to a certain age where you feel like it’s all about helping others. It’s not about you just being a selfish person about the things you’re going through – other people are going through stuff as well. If you can share that and put that on the forefront, it can help somebody. Whether it’s one person, a hundred, a thousand. I just finally got to that point where it was time for me to say something.

“It’s one of them things that no matter how indestructible we look like we are, we’re all human at the end of the day,” the 28-year-old Raptors all-star said. “We all got feelings . . . all of that. Sometimes . . . it gets the best of you, where times everything in the whole world’s on top of you.”

It was a hard time. DeRozan was letting everyone know.

“I always have various nights,” he said in a wide-ranging and wildly open glimpse into his private life. “I’ve always been like that since I was young, but I think that’s where my demeanour comes from.

“I’m so quiet, if you don’t know me. I stay standoffish in a sense, in my own personal space, to be able to cope with whatever it is you’ve got to cope with.”

The Toronto Raptors will reportedly pass on signing Vince Carter should the veteran hit the buyout market this month. According to Sportsnet‘s Michael Grange, the franchise still hopes for “some kind of reconnection” with Carter in the future. Can confirm that the Raptors have moved past Vince Carter as a buyout target should he be become available. […]

According to Sportsnet‘s Michael Grange, the franchise still hopes for “some kind of reconnection” with Carter in the future.

Can confirm that the Raptors have moved past Vince Carter as a buyout target should he be become available. There is hope for some kind of reconnection with the franchise icon at some point, but the heat of a playoff race was not the time. "That's on the back burner for now."

Hornets 133 (22-29), Pacers 126 (29-24) Charlotte dropped 49 points in the first quarter — the most by any team in any quarter this season — and, despite a second half surge from Indiana, was able to hold on behind 72 combined points from Kemba Walker (41 points, 9 assists) and Nicolas Batum (31 points, […]

Charlotte dropped 49 points in the first quarter — the most by any team in any quarter this season — and, despite a second half surge from Indiana, was able to hold on behind 72 combined points from Kemba Walker (41 points, 9 assists) and Nicolas Batum (31 points, 9 rebounds).

Neither team had much trouble scoring in this one. Victor Oladipo led the visitors with 35 points on 21 shots while Myles Turner (19 points, 11 rebounds) and Bojan Bogdanovic (18 points) helped with the offensive load. The Hornets hit 15 threes on 33 attempts.

Lakers 102 (20-31), Nets 99 (19-34)

On the night Brook Lopez made his return to Brooklyn to take on the team whose franchise scoring list he leads, the Lakers’ young guns stole the show in a close win. Brandon Ingram (16 points, 8 rebounds, 10 assists) nearly posted a triple-double and Julius Randle (19 points, 12 rebounds) dominated the Nets down low. Lopez added 19 points on 8-of-13 shooting.

Joe Harris missed the game-tying three at the buzzer for Brooklyn, which was led by Spencer Dinwiddie (23 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists) and rookie Jarrett Allen (career-high 20 points). LA won the rebounding battle by a margin of 56-38 and had 18 offensive boards, leading to 10 more field goal attempts.

Celtics 119 (38-15), Hawks 110 (15-37)

Looking for just their fifth road win of the season, the Hawks showed some life early on as they led for much of the first half. Then, the third quarter happened. Atlanta got cold while Boston got hot, and the Celtics outscored the Hawks by 41-20 in the period to take control. Terry Rozier (31 points, 7 rebounds) had another career game in the absence of Kyrie Irving. Jayson Tatum (27 points, 4 steals) played well on both ends of the floor.

This one was never in doubt. Toronto led by 19 after a monster first quarter and never looked back. DeMar DeRozan needed just 30 minutes to score his 35 points on a night when the Raptors went 19-for-40 from three-point range. Six Raps scored in double figures. Toronto is now 20-4 at home this season, which is the best home record in the NBA.

Damian Lillard (32 points, 10 assists) was the best Blazer all night but — other than Jusuf Nurkic (20 points) and C.J. McCollum (21 points) — he didn’t get much help. Those three accounted for all but 32 of Portland’s total points.

Bucks 92 (28-23), Knicks 90 (23-30)

Despite going just 5-for-25 from beyond the arc, the Knicks held a slim lead down the stretch in Milwaukee before Giannis Antentokounmpo (29 points, 11 rebounds) tied up the game at 90 with two minutes left to play. New York had a pair of great chances to take the lead after that, but Tim Hardaway Jr. missed a pair of free throws and Enes Kanter‘s layup rolled off the rim. That gave Giannis a chance to be the hero, and he took full advantage.

Kanter was great all game, finishing with 17 points and 18 rebounds. But, Hardaway was 1-for-14 from the field and Kristaps Porzingis (17 points, 7 rebounds) struggled with his outside shot, so points weren’t easy to come by for the Knicks. Jabari Parker scored 12 off the bench for Milwaukee in his season debut following his recovery from an ACL tear that kept him out of the lineup since last February.

76ers 103 (25-24), Heat 97 (29-23)

Even an extended 32-11 fourth quarter run by Miami couldn’t help the Heat overcome a rough first 36 minutes on Friday in Philly. The 76ers used a balanced scoring attack — all five starters had 13+ points — to build a huge lead early in the second half. But, Miami didn’t go away, cutting the Philly lead to just five with under two minutes to play. Back-to-back buckets from Ben Simmons (20 points) and Joel Embiid (17 points, 11 rebounds), though, cut down the comeback attempt.

Kelly Olynyk scored 19 points as a reserve to lead the Heat, while Bam Adebayo (15 points, 13 rebounds, 6 assists) continued to impress. Miami shot under 40 percent from the field and just 65 percent at the free throw line.

Pelicans 114 (28-23), Thunder 100 (30-23)

New Orleans needed to get back on track following consecutive post-Boogie injury losses to the Clippers and Kings, and getting a W against the Thunder in Oklahoma City certainly helps with that. Most of the work was done by Anthony Davis, who posted a casual 43-point, 10-rebound double-double. E’Twaun Moore — a very sleeper Most Improved candidate — was perfect from three-point range en route to scoring 26 points on 10-of-14 shooting.

Steven Adams (23 points, 12 rebounds) held his own with AD but even he couldn’t stop one of the Association’s most dominant big men. Weak shooting nights from Carmelo Anthony, Paul George and Russell Westbrook (who put together a triple-double, but had nine turnovers) contributed to OKC’s inconsistent offense.

Jazz 129 (23-28), Suns 97 (18-35)

Phoenix didn’t exactly put up much resistance against a determined Utah team, led by super-rookie Donovan Mitchell (40 points on 14-of-19 shooting with 7 threes).

Mitchell is playing like the biggest steal of the entire draft right now and, in all likelihood, is Ben Simmons’ biggest competition for Rookie of the Year. Considering he was traded on draft day to the Jazz from the Nuggets for Trey Lyles, he would be one of the unlikelier ROY winners in recent memory.

Warriors 119 (41-11), Kings 104 (16-35)

After coming back from an early double-digit deficit, the Warriors kept the Kings at bay most of the game but weren’t able to make their big push until midway through the fourth quarter when Sacramento cut the Golden State lead to 89-88. The Warriors rolled off eight straight points to take back control, which is where Kevin Durant (33 points on 17 shots) took over. He scored 10 points in a row — including a pair of threes — to finally bury the Kings.

Nick Young (12 points in 16 minutes) made some big threes off the bench. Sacramento had six players score in double figures, led by Zach Randolph (18 points), but let the Warriors shoot 55 percent from the field and were outrebounded by 18. The Kings did force 25 Golden State turnovers, which let this game stay close for as long as it did.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/postup/post-up-youth-movement/feed/0SLAMonlineCredit: Gary Dineen/Getty ImagesBradley Beal Says Raptors Are The Best Team In The Easthttps://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/bradley-beal-raptors-best-team-east/
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Wizards guard Bradley Beal offered some high praise to the Toronto Raptors on Thursday, calling them “the best [team] in the East right now.” In advance of the Wizards’ matchup with Toronto, Beal said that Toronto has so many threats that Washington “can’t take anybody for granted.” Your browser does not support iframes. “It’s a […]

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/kyle-lowry-was-ready-to-confront-ben-simmons-in-tunnel/feed/0SLAMonlinePHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 15: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers argues with Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors in the final moments of the game at the Wells Fargo Center on January 15, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Raptors 117-111. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)Raptors GM Masai Ujiri Responds To Donald Trump’s ‘S–thole Countries’ Remark...https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/raptors-masai-ujiri-responds-donald-trump-shithole-countries-remark/
https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/raptors-masai-ujiri-responds-donald-trump-shithole-countries-remark/#respondFri, 12 Jan 2018 22:09:04 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=473087

“This summer, I went to Kigali, and Nairobi and Lagos, and I went to Kampala and Abidjan and Dakar and Johannesburg and I saw great cities, and great people. And I went to visit the refugee camp in Dadaab, and I met good people and good families with plenty of hope.

“If those places are being referred to as shitholes, go visit those places, and go meet those people.”[…]

“I don’t think it’s fair, and I don’t think it’s what inspiring leadership can be. What sense of hope are we giving people if you are calling where they live — and where they’re from — a shithole?” […]

“God doesn’t put anyone someplace permanently. I am a living testimony to that. If I grew up in a shithole, I am proud of my shithole.”

The surprise of the night wasn’t that the Raptors beat the Cavs. Or even that it was a blowout — it’s a long season and that happens, even to great teams. But Toronto dismantled Cleveland in a game that was never competitive. The Raptors tied a franchise record for points in a regulation game and the Cavs have now lost back-to-back games by 25-or-more for the first time in the LeBron James era. James did have 26 points to lead the Cavs, but Cleveland shot just 38 percent and made only 6 of 26 threes. Fred VanVleet had a career-high 22 for the Raptors, who have won six out of seven. With the Cavs now 3-7 in their last 10, LeBron let his frustrations known…

The Celtics came back from down 22 to beat the Sixers in London behind 20 points and seven assists from Kyrie Irving. Philly built its lead by making its first nine shots of the second quarter while Boston struggled to score. An Irving three, however, sparked a run, and the Celtics cut their deficit to nine by halftime. JJ Redick had 22 to lead all scorers, while Joel Embiid had 15 points and 10 rebounds.

One night after going off for 50 points, Lou Williams was the hero again, this time scoring 30 in Sacramento. He did his damage on 10-24 shooting with five threes, while Montrezl Harrell came off the bench to score 25 more. Bogdan Bogdanovic had 22 to lead the Kings. This one was in doubt until the final seconds. The Kings trailed by two with the ball and the shot clock turned off, but Tyrone Wallace came up with a steal and a breakaway layup to put the game out of reach.

The few players who were available for the Spurs kept this game close despite a 17-0 Lakers run in the first half. Ultimately, however, Brandon Ingram (26 points) and Lonzo Ball (18 points, 10 rebounds, six assists) were too much to handle. The Spurs, who committed 20 turnovers, got 20 points from LaMarcus Aldridge. However they were without Kawhi Leonard, Tony Parker, Danny Green and Rudy Gay. Oh, and in the fourth quarter, Larry Nance Jr. did this:

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/serge-ibaka-james-johnson-ejected-throwing-punches/feed/02018 Vaughn RidleyTORONTO, ON - JANUARY 09: James Johnson #16 of the Miami Heat is held back by team security after he got into an altercation with Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors during the second half of an NBA game at Air Canada Centre on January 9, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)Kyle Lowry Suffers Acute Back Spasm After Hard Fallhttps://www.slamonline.com/slam-tv/kyle-lowry-suffered-acute-back-spasm-hard-fall/
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DeRozan scored 35 points, including a go-ahead three-point play with 26.1 seconds left in overtime, and the Raptors shook off a late injury to Kyle Lowry to beat the Brooklyn Nets 114-113 on Monday night.

“We rely on Kyle for everything he does for us, to be the general out there on the court,” DeRozan said. “And it’s tough when he’s not out there but we got to figure it out.”

“He reminds me a lot of Gary Payton, who threw his body around and he has to play that way to be effective,” Raptors coach Dwane Casey said. “And we love it when he does because he was in there, getting rebounds over their guards and he got clipped on that one and hopefully he’s OK.”

Russell Westbrook might be well on his way to another triple-double, but his frustration boiled over after a play midway through the second quarter of Wednesday night’s game between the Thunder and Raptors. Westbrook drove and ran into Jonas Valanciunas, missing the shot and falling to the floor. Valanciunas appeared to reach down for the […]

Russell Westbrook might be well on his way to another triple-double, but his frustration boiled over after a play midway through the second quarter of Wednesday night’s game between the Thunder and Raptors.

Westbrook drove and ran into Jonas Valanciunas, missing the shot and falling to the floor. Valanciunas appeared to reach down for the ball, causing Westbrook to take exception.

Everyone got that friend who invites you over to hang out and play video games but when it’s time to pass the sticks… pic.twitter.com/0BLrGV4WHq

When it comes to Christmas Day games, DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry have gotten lumps of coal from the NBA in their stockings for years. And all they want is for the @Raptors to play an Xmas game.https://t.co/TttGh1GJvj

“It has gotten to the point where you just sigh and say, ‘Another year …’ That’s crazy. I always wanted to say that I’m playing on Christmas,” DeRozan said. […]

“We’ve won. We’ve been one of the best in the league the past few years. To not get that look is definitely crazy. … There is really no excuse. We’ve proven we are a top team in the league for a reason,” said DeRozan, who has played with the Raptors since 2009.

“I thought he was a young Ray Allen,” [Raptors head coach Dwane] Casey said about DeRozan’s 4-of-4 first-quarter shooting from 3, reminiscing of his days as an assistant coach with the Seattle SuperSonics in the early 2000s. “That’s what we need from him. It opens up the floor, especially on nights when we just didn’t have it. We were playing in mud in the first half.”

DeRozan finished 13 of 15 from the line to best the 43 points he scored against Boston last season. The Sixers only took 14 free throws as a team.

“That’s been my career the past few years, getting to the free throw line,” DeRozan said. “Being able to close out the game and me understanding to slow the game down. Get the momentum going our way and try to kill them at the free-throw line.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-lights-sixers-career-high-45-points/feed/02017 Mitchell LeffPHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 21: DeMar DeRozan #10 of the Toronto Raptors reacts in front of Trevor Booker #35 of the Philadelphia 76ers after a made basket in the third quarter at the Wells Fargo Center on December 21, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Raptors defeated the 76ers 114-109. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)Vince Carter: Raptors Return ‘Supposed to Happen’https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/vince-carter-raptors-return-supposed-happen/
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“It’s just one of those things, it’ll happen, for sure,” he said of a Raptors reunion.

“Somehow, whether it’s one day or something, it’ll happen. It’s supposed to happen, I think. I can say that now. I’ve had a lot of people say it’s supposed to happen, so now I guess I have to believe.”

The Raptors told Carter’s agent that they wanted to bring him home last summer, before the Kings swept in with a massive, one-year offer. Carter admitted that he isn’t sure whether he will keep playing after this season, but Kyle Lowry hoped this wasn’t the end.

“Vince, his number will be retired, he’s a guy I’ve always looked up to, respected, someone that has earned the right to have his jersey retired in the Raptors’ arena,” Lowry said. “What can you say? Tip the hat to the guy that pretty much changed the game of basketball for a whole country … I hope this was not the last time of him playing basketball in this building.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/vince-carter-raptors-return-supposed-happen/feed/02017 Vaughn RidleyTORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 17: Vince Carter #15 of the Sacramento Kings, DeMar DeRozan #10 and Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors watch a free throw during the first half of an NBA game at Air Canada Centre on December 17, 2017 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)UPDATE: Devin Booker Out 2-3 Weeks With Groin Strainhttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/devin-booker-carried-off-court-groin-injury/
https://www.slamonline.com/nba/devin-booker-carried-off-court-groin-injury/#respondWed, 06 Dec 2017 13:25:28 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=468340

UPDATE: Devin Booker is expected to miss between 2-3 weeks due to a left adductor strain, the Phoenix Suns announced Wednesday.

BOOKER INJURY UPDATE: Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker sustained a left adductor strain in the fourth quarter of Tuesday night’s game at Toronto. Following further evaluation and an MRI, his expected recovery time is approximately two to three weeks. pic.twitter.com/NSKLIOssoi

“It’s tough,” Suns center Greg Monroe said.” He’s obviously one of the great young players in this league. He’s having an outstanding year right now, so you definitely don’t want to see him get injured.”

Booker, who shook off a 2-for-11 start to score a season-high 46 points Monday in a win at Philadelphia, shot 0 for 7 in the first half Tuesday. He finished 4 for 15 with 19 points, including 10 of 12 from the foul line.

“Any time you have to get carried off it’s always a scare, especially someone like him and how valuable he is to our team,” Suns forward Jared Dudley said.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/devin-booker-carried-off-court-groin-injury/feed/02017 Mitchell LeffPHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 4: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns looks on prior to the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on December 4, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)Post Up: Home Cookinghttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/post-up-home-cooking-2/
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Toronto continues to roll at home. DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry each scored 20 points to lead the Raptors, who won their 7th straight home game. They used big a first and third quarter to cruise past Phoenix, which was able to hang around for awhile and made a late-game push but just couldn’t get any big stops.

T.J. Warren was ejected early in the second half for jawing with the refs and, with just under two minutes left to play, Devin Booker had to be carried off the floor with an apparent groin injury. It looked ugly in real-time but he was diagnosed with only a left adductor strain, per the Suns. That’s the same injury Anthony Davis suffered on Saturday night against the Trail Blazers. Prayers up to D-Book, even though it appears like he avoided a serious injury.

Don’t look now, but the Thunder may be heating up. OKC has won three in a row — all against winning teams — and is starting to get into a groove at home. Utah led by 12 after three quarters, but the Thunder used a monster fourth to take control as they outscored the Jazz 32-14.

They played far from a perfect game, committing 18 turnovers, with seven apiece from Paul George and Russ, but locked in down the stretch. OKC held the Jazz to 6-of-20 shooting in the final frame (1-of-8 from three) and kept Utah off the foul line. On the other end of the floor, the Thunder shot almost 60% from the field in the last 12 minutes and won the rebounding battle 17-7.

Stud rookie Donovan Mitchell dropped 31 points to pace Utah, but had a few misplays down the stretch and wound up with 5 turnovers.

Wizards 106 (13-11), Trail Blazers 92 (13-11)

No John Wall, no problem. Bradley Beal dropped a career-high 51 points to help the Wizards rebound from a blowout loss in Utah on Monday. Most teams would be sunk without their starting All-Star point guard for any period of time. Most teams can’t say they have someone like Beal.

Damian Lillard scored 30 points for Portland but he couldn’t stick with Beal, who had a bit of a lull in the fourth quarter which allowed the Trail Blazers to sneak back into the game. However, he made a few jumpers down the stretch to stem the tide and hit the half-century mark.

With their 126-113 win over the Suns on Tuesday night, the Raptors won their 7th straight game at Air Canada Centre to improve to 9-1 at home on the season. That’s the best home record in the NBA, and Dwane Casey’s squad’s play in The 6 is the main reason for why the Raptors are 3rd in the East and able to keep pace with Boston in the Atlantic.

Toronto, despite having won 48+ games in each of the last four seasons, has kind of flown under the radar so far. The Celtics’ and Cavaliers’ win streaks — as well the Pistons’ and 76ers’ hot starts — have grabbed most of the attention in the conference, while the Raptors’ steady play hasn’t.

For as improved as Toronto’s depth is with the offseason pickup of Miles and development of the young bigs, it’s still not going to be easy for the Raptors to compete with Boston or Cleveland come playoff time. But, as long as they stay healthy and make it to the postseason as a No. 3 or No. 4 seed, they’ll have a shot to push either of those teams deep into a series. With that dangerous backcourt and versatile frontcourt guys, Toronto is as well-suited to take down one of the top dogs as any other team in the East.

The Raptors cruised by the Kemba Walker-less Hornets tonight in Toronto, with Kyle Lowry dropping 36 points to lead the way.

One of The 6’s most famous natives — and a big Raptors fan — was in attendance and he had the honor of talking to Lowry after the game on Sportsnet. The two are friends and, with Drake sitting courtside at a lot of Lowry’s games, they see each other a lot. That made for some funny tape.

Gotta say, Drake was pretty good in his first sideline reporting role. He asked some solid, out-of-the-box questions and kept it real. If he wanted to push music aside and go into journalism, he wouldn’t have to wait too long to find a gig.

DeMar DeRozan had 27 points and the Raptors made 14 threes, helping them hold off James Harden and the Rockets for a big win on the road. Toronto has now won three of its last four games, scoring at least 119 points in each of those victories.

Harden had 38 points, 11 assists, and made all 19 of his free throws to set a single-game franchise record. Harden also shot just 8-25 from the field and committed nine turnovers.

The Beard’s efforts weren’t enough to counter a Toronto team that set a record of its own with 45 points in the second quarter — the most in single quarter in team history. The Raptors led 76-64 at the half.

Kyle Lowry had 19 points and 19 assists, while rookie OG Anunoby had 16 more. It all added up to…this:

We’re coming up on a month since the last time the Celtics lost a game. Boston picked up its 13th in a row on Tuesday behind 25 points from the now-masked Kyrie Irving.

As they have done for much of the season, the Nets made their opponents work for it. An 8-0 run midway through the fourth quarter brought Brooklyn within four and kept the pressure on, forcing the Celtics to make free throws down the stretch.

Marcus Morris had a season-high 21 points for the Celtics and 11 came in the fourth quarter.

Joe Harris played 20 minutes and led the Nets with 19 points on 7-14 shooting and was 5-11 from three.

While the Celtics have seemed unstoppable of late, the difficulty level will go up a bit on Thursday when they host the defending champs for an 8 p.m. ET tip.

“The first time back for me [to Toronto] was tough because the situation was different for me. [DeMarcus Cousins] walked into a room of cheers. I didn’t. It was tough, but at the same time it ignited a fire and I went out there and played well. Every player will say that going back to one of your old stops, you want to play well. It’s nothing different than any other player. It was a different situation for me, but it always is great to go back [to Toronto] and great to play there every time you step on the [Air Canada Centre] property where it’s in the hallways, in the locker room and obviously on the court. Seeing the people that still work there always brings back fond memories.

“Of course, I’d like for [the Raptors] to retire my jersey. You’d always like your jersey retired. That is where it’s started. There have been talks about it. People talk about it, and I’m very thankful for it. But for me, I try my best not to think about it because I am still of service in this league. At the end of the day, every player’s end result is to see their jersey hanging in the rafters somewhere. That is where it started. Hopefully I will get that opportunity.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/vince-carter-wants-raptors-retire-jersey/feed/0This content is subject to copyright.8 Dec 2000: Vince Carter #15 of the Toronto Raptors looks on from the court during the game against the Golden State Warriors at The Arena in Oakland, California. The Raptors defeated the Warriors 108-98. NOTE TO USER: It is expressly understood that the only rights Allsport are offering to license in this Photograph are one-time, non-exclusive editorial rights. No advertising or commercial uses of any kind may be made of Allsport photos. User acknowledges that it is aware that Allsport is an editorial sports agency and that NO RELEASES OF ANY TYPE ARE OBTAINED from the subjects contained in the photographs.Mandatory Credit: Jed Jacobsohn /AllsportSerge Ibaka And LaMarcus Aldridge Scuffle in Spurs Winhttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/serge-ibaka-lamarcus-aldridge-scuffle-spurs-win/
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Powell has averaged 7.3 points in two NBA seasons, including 8.4 points in 2016-17. In nine playoff games last season, Powell averaged 11.7 points and 44 percent on 3-point shooting.

Powell was eligible for the higher figure between 120 percent of his $1.4 million annual salary, or 120 percent of the average projected NBA salary this season. Miami recently agreed to a four-year, $42 million extension with Josh Richardson under the provision in the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement.

What’s good, Double D? This is the fourth consecutive year I have the pleasure of writing up your ranking on the SLAM Top 50, and I believe a small congratulatory remark is in order. You’ve moved up three spots from last year, resulting in your highest ranking on our countdown yet—congrats!

While moving up three spots isn’t nearly as big of a jump as his previous year’s uptick of 22, it’s definitely not a bad thing.

If DeRozan tips off the new season the way he did last year, we all best be ready for some ball. The Raptors’ guard logged nine 30-plus point performances in the first 11 games of the 2016-17 season. Before the end of the calendar year, he became Toronto’s all-time leading scorer. Fans and opposing teams alike witnessed DeRozan’s pure scoring ability as 2016 came to a close.

Early 2017 continued the trend. The new year saw improved career highs for DeRozan in both points, with 43 against the Celtics on Feb. 24, as well as rebounds with 13 also against the Celtics on Jan. 10. He earned his third NBA All-Star selection in four years. With career best averages of 27.3 points per game—good for fifth in the League—and 5.2 rebounds, he definitely showed he possessed the necessary skills to put up consistent numbers and claim wins for The North during the regular season. For the first time in his career, he was named to the All-NBA Third Team.

The Compton native attracts the eyes of fans and players alike, mesmerizing onlookers with his fancy footwork. Even Kevin Durant says DeRozan’s moves are worth studying. He draws fouls and uses his length to effortlessly shoot over defenders both with his pull-up and step-back game. He loves his mid-range territory, and rightfully so—his efficacy with that shot is undeniable.

Heading into this season, we can definitely expect more points from his sweet spot, more of his gravity-defying dunks, and more of his expert footwork on the court. But of course, there is always room for growth and we hope to see some of that from the All-Star in the 6ix. The Raptors certainly need it from Deebo come playoff time if they want to travel deep into the postseason.

Improvements specifically in DeRozan’s perimeter game, passing, and presence on the defensive end this upcoming year will be the game changer in his play. With these additions to DeRozan’s already impressive skill set, we can’t imagine Toronto falling prey to another clean sweep in the playoffs.

And it seems like he started working on his 3-point range this offseason:

So Double D, we’ve got our seat belts on. We’re ready for the fun ride we’re hoping for at the start of the new season. Congrats again on all your accomplishments so far, but this year, we are itching for a little bit more.

DeRozan, 28, reacted in much the same way last summer, when the mag ranked him 46th in the League.

The All-Star guard is coming off career-best averages in points (27.3) and assists (5.2) for the Toronto Raptors.

Per the Globe and Mail:

He had a similar reaction last year at SI’s No. 46 ranking, tweeting “FOH 46” and “ProveEM.” DeRozan did just that, earning NBA all-star status while ranking fifth in scoring at 27.3 points a game during the regular season.

Sports Illustrated had him at No. 61 in 2015-16.

This season, SI has DeRozan sandwiched between New York’s Carmelo Anthony and Milwaukee’s Khris Middleton.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/raptors-contacted-cavs-kyrie-irving/feed/02017 Getty ImagesCLEVELAND, OH - MAY 1: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors guards Kyrie Irving #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half of Game One of the NBA Eastern Conference semifinals at Quicken Loans Arena on May 1, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Raptors 116-105. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)DeMarre Carroll: Raptors ‘Didn’t Trust Each Other’https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/demarre-carroll-raptors-didnt-trust/
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The 51-31 Raps finished third in the Eastern Conference standings, and were swept out of the Playoffs by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Per the Toronto Sun:

“I wasn’t surprised because I knew it was a lot of things going on last year that didn’t come out,” Carroll told Postmedia on Sunday in his first interview following the deal.

“I wasn’t happy, my agent, we thought the style of ball was going to be different, it was going to be more team-oriented, but I guess it was still ISO, so I thought they would have moved me last year, but that didn’t happen.”

After the Raptors got swept by Cleveland, president Masai Ujiri, head coach Dwane Casey and others spoke of finally altering the style to a more team-oriented, three-point shooting approach which more closely matches the way the game is played by most teams these days.

“They say they’re going to try something different, I would love to see it (work). It’s always good to do it,” [Carroll] said, adding he believes they will start the season trying to stick to the new plan.

“But once adversity hits and stuff starts going wrong, guys are going to go back to ISO basketball, that’s how it is. You’ve got to trust it. It’s one of those things you’ve got to build, you’ve just got to trust each other. This year, I feel like a lot of guys didn’t trust each other and a lot of guys, they didn’t feel like other guys could produce or (be) given the opportunity, so there was a lot of lack of trust on our team, so that’s what hindered us from going (as far as they wanted to go).”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/demarre-carroll-raptors-didnt-trust/feed/02017 NBAETORONTO, CANADA - MAY 7: DeMarre Carroll #5 of the Toronto Raptors handles the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2017 NBA Playoffs on May 7, 2017 at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)DeMar DeRozan Throws Ball at Drew League Refhttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-throws-ball-drew-league-ref/
https://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-throws-ball-drew-league-ref/#respondMon, 10 Jul 2017 13:55:33 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=449421

The Raptors, in a salary-cap clearing move, are shipping DeMarre Carroll (plus two 2018 lottery-protected first-round and second-round picks) to the Brooklyn Nets.

Miles will reportedly sign a three-year, $25 million deal.

Per ESPN:

The deal is pending completion of the Raptors’ trade with the Brooklyn Nets that will send DeMarre Carroll and two draft picks to Brooklyn for Justin Hamilton, league sources said. That transaction is pending the completion of the Washington Wizards matching Brooklyn’s $106 million offer sheet for Otto Porter Jr.

Miles, 30, gives the Raptors an athletic, scoring wing player who can share minutes with the developing Norman Powell. Miles shot 41 percent on 3-pointers last season, his 12th year in the league. The contract is expected to allow the Raptors to stay out of the luxury tax.

Joseph, 25, has been a supremely consistent backup guard for the Raptors who’ll fit well into the Pacers’ plan to go younger and start rebuilding the roster post-Paul George.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/raptors-trading-cory-joseph-pacers-cj-miles/feed/02016 NBAETORONTO, CANADA - APRIL 26: Cory Joseph #6 of the Toronto Raptors drives to the basket against the Indiana Pacers in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2016 NBA Playoffs on April 26, 2016 at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by Dave Sandford/NBAE via Getty Images)Kyle Lowry Agrees To 3-Year, $100 Million Deal With Raptorshttps://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/kyle-lowry-raptors-deal/
https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/kyle-lowry-raptors-deal/#respondSun, 02 Jul 2017 22:09:38 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=448598

The point guard made the announcement via The Players’ Tribunein a piece called “Home.” Below is an excerpt from the essay:

When I had to make my free-agency decision, there was a lot going through my head, a lot of roads my mind was traveling down. Family, first and foremost, and what’s going to make them happy, and give them the best life. Basketball, of course, and where I’d like to play for these next several years. And then there was also the gut-check aspect — just what I was feeling in my heart.

But for me, at the end of the day, this was an easy decision. And all of those roads … they all led me back to the same place: home.

They all led me back to Toronto.

Lowry averaged a career-high 22.4 points per game last season and was named an All-Star for the third consecutive season.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/kyle-lowry-raptors-deal/feed/02017 NBAEPHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 18: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors goes for the lay up during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on January 18, 2017 at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)Serge Ibaka To Sign 3-Year, $65 Million Deal With Raptorshttps://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/serge-ibaka-resigns-raptors/
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]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/serge-ibaka-resigns-raptors/feed/02017 Getty ImagesCLEVELAND, OH - MAY 3: Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors drives around LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half of Game Two of the NBA Eastern Conference semifinals at Quicken Loans Arena on May 3, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Raptors 125-103. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)Report: Knicks Won’t Pursue Masai Ujiri For ‘Multiple Picks’https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/knicks-wont-pursue-masai-ujiri-multiple-picks/
https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/knicks-wont-pursue-masai-ujiri-multiple-picks/#respondFri, 30 Jun 2017 14:56:34 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=448122

During Jimmy Butler‘s introductory press conference with the Timberwolves, Butler said that he would be recruiting “a lot of really good players, much better than myself” to join him in Minnesota. Butler was already “in the ear” of Kyle Lowry about joining him in Chicago, and—according to SiriusXM’s Mitch Lawrence—Butler is continuing to recruit Lowry to the Timberwolves […]

During Jimmy Butler‘s introductory press conference with the Timberwolves, Butler said that he would be recruiting “a lot of really good players, much better than myself” to join him in Minnesota.

Butler was already “in the ear” of Kyle Lowry about joining him in Chicago, and—according to SiriusXM’s Mitch Lawrence—Butler is continuing to recruit Lowry to the Timberwolves (starting at 39:45).

Via the Dan Barreiro Show on KFAN:

“I had found out through sources, that by getting Jimmy Butler, the Timberwovles are now saying, You know what, we can do better than Ricky Rubio at point guard because Jimmy Butler is going to help us land attractive free agents.” […]

(44:08) “[Butler] has talked to Kyle Lowry through their Team USA association about coming to Chicago.

“Now I heard he’s working on him about coming to Minnesota.”

During the press conference on Thursday, Butler confirmed that he’ll be actively recruiting players to join the team in Minnesota (starting at 1:21).

“I’ll be talking to a lot of really good players, much better than myself, and get them here to join what we have. I know that with the support I’ve already felt from this city that they’re definitely going to love it.

“Getting here, with this young core, winning these games, anybody is going to want to be a part of that.

After dismissingPhil Jackson from his post as President of Basketball Operations on Wednesday, Knicks owner James Dolan is reportedly turning his attention toward the Raptors’ Masai Ujiri for New York’s top front office job.

Ujiri signed a multiyear extension with Toronto last September, so the Knicks would likely have to offer Ujiri a huge raise to pique his interest.

Lowry, 31, is in line for a big payday. His $12-million-a-year salary will certainly more than double, but how much more than that and for how many years he signs will be the interesting part.

Ujiri did his best to throw water on the published suggestion that Lowry has already determined he won’t be returning.

“He’s been a part of our organization and he says he wants to come back,” Ujiri said referencing his own conversations with Lowry over the past week or so while Lowry was in two working out.

“Listen, I know there is speculation … we all have ups and downs,” Ujiri said. “Here are times when he has been down and there are times when we are down. It happens to every team, every player. People go through it. This is rumour season and everyone is going to make a big deal out of everything. I know what Kyle has told me. Kyle has been here working out and he actually just left. I know what he has been telling me and I can only believe what he tells me, not the famous sources. We will see how that goes.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/raptors-president-kyle-lowry-wants-come-back/feed/02017 NBAETORONTO, CANADA - MAY 5: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors looks on during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2017 NBA Playoffs on May 5, 2017 at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Mark Blinch/NBAE via Getty Images)Report: Kyle Lowry Has ‘Zero Interest’ in Re-signing with Raptorshttps://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/kyle-lowry-zero-interest-re-signing-raptors/
https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/kyle-lowry-zero-interest-re-signing-raptors/#respondTue, 20 Jun 2017 19:49:43 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=446494

Even if the organization did manage to make a deal for a big-time player, Kyle Lowry is a free agent, and multiple league sources say the all-star point guard has been grumbling about dissatisfaction with the Raptors for months.

As of mid-May other teams were being told Lowry had “zero interest” in returning to Toronto, even if the Raptors offered a maximum five-year deal.

Which since the club had no intention of offering a five-year deal probably made Lowry’s declaration easier to make.

Sources have said the North Philly native has been interested in playing for the Sixers for some time. The speculation only heightened once Bryan Colangelo became the president of basketball operations in April 2016.

As the Raptors general manager, Colangelo acquired Lowry in a trade from the Houston Rockets on July 11, 2012. The two have remained good friends since then.

And sources have always said that the Sixers planned to offer Lowry a lucrative contract this summer.

After being swept by the Cavs in the second round, Lowry said that said his main priority is playing on a championship contender. But if Lowry gets the number he wants from Philly, he could be heading home.

The Raptors not only have to make a decision on Lowry, but unrestricted forwards Serge Ibaka, PJ Tucker and Patrick Patterson.

The 31-year-old All-Star point guard was hobbled by a sprained ankle in the Raptors’ final two Playoff games.

Per The Globe and Mail:

The all-star expressed his love for Toronto and his close friend and teammate DeMar DeRozan and repeatedly said he hadn’t thought much about his strategy as a free agent, but his top priority is winning.

“A ring. Nothing else. I just want a ring. I think I can do that anywhere I play. That’s just how confident I am,” Lowry said. “I’ve got to get better and I want to beat the best. Whatever it takes to beat the best, that’s what I’ve got to do.”

Lowry will enter free agency for the third time in his career. He said he wants to spend this summer improving his body, his leadership skills, explosiveness and efficiency. He also hopes to improve his mental game by watching a lot of game film.

“We don’t have LeBron,” Lowry said. “I’m going to work harder to beat the best. That’s what I want to do, beat the best, whoever it is – the Warriors, the Cavs, whoever wins the championship this year. I want to do whatever it takes to beat them as a basketball player, to beat them.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/kyle-lowry-just-want-ring/feed/02017 Getty ImagesCLEVELAND, OH - MAY 3: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors warms up prior to Game Two of the NBA Eastern Conference semifinals against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on May 3, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Kyle LowryLeBron to Raptors Fan: ‘You Should Be Mad About the Shoes You Picked Out Today’https://www.slamonline.com/nba/lebron-raptors-fan-mad-shoes-picked-today/
https://www.slamonline.com/nba/lebron-raptors-fan-mad-shoes-picked-today/#respondTue, 09 May 2017 03:36:14 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=440142

The Cavaliers made short work of the Raptors over the weekend, advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals for the third-straight season as LeBron continues his dominance of the East. Photographer Charlie Lindsay (@doncharleone) was on hand for Game 3 and Game 4 to capture the sweep and caught some amazing flicks of LeBron, Kyrie and DeMar DeRozan for us.

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/cavaliers-raptors-photo-recap/feed/0SLAMonlineDeMar DeRozan: Raptors Would Have Won With LeBron Jameshttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-raptors-would-have-won-with-lebron-james/
https://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-raptors-would-have-won-with-lebron-james/#respondMon, 08 May 2017 15:55:31 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=439991

“They’re the champs,” [Kyle] Lowry said. “He’s unbelievable. He’s a great player. He’s doing what his team needs for him to do. They’re the defending champs for a reason. He’s just been on another level, and he’s just raised his game. I know I’m not a LeBron, and DeMar’s not a LeBron. We push our team, and do what we need to do to get our team wins, and we’ve just got to get better. Some how, some way.”

And with that, he cut to the heart of the issue. Nobody is LeBron. Lowry is a top-20 player in the world, but LeBron is the best player by miles, and you can stuff your MVP vote in a sack. Lowry and DeRozan have delivered the best era in Raptors history: the four winningest seasons in franchise history, the first four consecutive playoff berths, the first three wins in a best-of-seven series.

Then comes LeBron, and he turns it all to ash. DeRozan said he thinks LeBron seems a lot faster and quicker this year, and that “him out there is much different from last year.” Fifty wins, Kyle and DeMar, playoff spots, and LeBron makes it all feel small.

“I think he understands the moment,” Raptors coach Dwane Casey said. “I think he’s chasing Michael (Jordan). I think he’s chasing rings. And that’s what a guy at his level does. We’re trying to get where they’ve been, to the championship. It’s not easy. They’ve been through some turmoil. He’s been through heartache and pain. You’ve got to go through that to get there. There’s no shame at all going through toughness and pain to get where to where you want to go to win a championship.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/demar-derozan-raptors-would-have-won-with-lebron-james/feed/02017 Getty ImagesTORONTO, ON - MAY 07: DeMar DeRozan #10 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball as Lebron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers defends in the second half of Game Four of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre on May 7, 2017 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)Norman Powell Says LeBron James Tried to ‘Son’ Himhttps://www.slamonline.com/nba/norman-powell-says-lebron-james-tried-to-son-him/
https://www.slamonline.com/nba/norman-powell-says-lebron-james-tried-to-son-him/#respondMon, 08 May 2017 13:20:18 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=439945

LeBron James yanked Norman Powell's jersey in Game 3 of the East semis.

“They were subbing in PJ [Tucker], he thought I was coming out, he was pulling my jersey,” Powell told ESPN before Sunday’s Game 4. “I hit his hand away and told him, ‘You don’t do that.’ I told him not to pull my jersey. We got into it a little bit. I told him not to pull my jersey. If he’s trying to get my attention, call my name, call my number, but don’t do that. Don’t pull my jersey like that.”

“I just don’t like that,” Powell told ESPN. “I don’t care if it’s LeBron or if it’s anybody. It could be Kawhi [Leonard], it could be anybody. Just don’t pull my jersey. I feel like that’s a little disrespectful, you know what I’m saying? Like you’re trying to son me, and I don’t go for that.”

James responded to Powell’s hitting his arm with an incredulous look.

“He said he was trying to help me,” Powell said. “I mean, if you’re trying to help me, don’t pull my jersey. You can call my name, you don’t have to pull my jersey like that. I feel like that’s disrespectful. So, I hit his hand away. He said he was trying to help me. He was like, ‘All right, all right. I won’t help next time.’ Whatever. Just don’t pull my jersey.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/norman-powell-says-lebron-james-tried-to-son-him/feed/02017 Getty ImagesTORONTO, ON - MAY 05: Lebron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers dribbles the ball as Norman Powell #24 of the Toronto Raptors defends in the second half of Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre on May 5, 2017 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)Dwane Casey on LeBron James: ‘Any Time You Got No. 23, You Can Flip Any Switch You Want’...https://www.slamonline.com/nba/dwane-casey-lebron-james-time-no-23-hes-difference/
https://www.slamonline.com/nba/dwane-casey-lebron-james-time-no-23-hes-difference/#respondSun, 07 May 2017 23:16:41 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=439864

“It’s bait,” James told ESPN at Cavs shootaround ahead of Friday’s Game 3. “If [Ibaka] would have reached in, I would have put it on the floor.

“It was a mental thing. Everything I do is mental.”

Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry didn’t have a problem with James spinning the ball. He had a problem with the Raptors’ defense being so ineffective that James would feel empowered to attempt such a move.

“I was pretty upset, [but] not that he did it,” Lowry said. “He should spin the ball. He’s comfortable. We can’t let him be comfortable. We have to make him uncomfortable. He’s in a situation right now where he’s playing very comfortably and the things he’s doing is comfortable. If I was comfortable, I would do the same thing.”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/nba/lebron-james-wasnt-disrespecting-serge-ibaka-ball-spin/feed/02017 Getty ImagesCLEVELAND, OH - MAY 3: Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors drives around LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half of Game Two of the NBA Eastern Conference semifinals at Quicken Loans Arena on May 3, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Raptors 125-103. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)Kyle Korver: Cavs Want to Sweep Raptors to Get a Week Offhttps://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/kyle-korver-cavs-want-to-sweep-raptors-to-get-a-week-off/
https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/kyle-korver-cavs-want-to-sweep-raptors-to-get-a-week-off/#respondThu, 04 May 2017 14:50:06 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=439477

“Playoff LeBron” has destroyed Toronto in the series’ first two games, and is looking to put them out of their misery as quickly as possible.

Per NBA.com:

Asked about the level of James’ play this spring relative to the past, [Iman] Shumpert ran a hand over his face, smiled and shook his head, agreeing that Playoff LeBron is hitting new heights. Kevin Love spoke of James’ efficiency, though it wasn’t efficiency that left bruises on the bodies and the egos of first Indiana and now Toronto.

Kyle Korver, the veteran shooter acquired in January, was on the receiving end of James’ postseason missions in 2011, 2015 and 2016, his teams going 1-12 in East clashes. But now he’s on the inside with James, and has been caught up in the relentlessness of the man.

“I know sweeps are hard to get,” Korver said, “but these guys have been doing that, and it’s like they want to sweep so they get that week [off between rounds]. Having that thought in their heads – ‘If we sweep this team, we’re going to have that time off’ – not many teams go into a playoff series thinking that. You’re just trying to win the series. But they were like, ‘Trust us.’”

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/kyle-korver-cavs-want-to-sweep-raptors-to-get-a-week-off/feed/02017 Getty ImagesCLEVELAND, OH - MAY 1: Kyrie Irving #2 LeBron James #23 and Kyle Korver #26 of the Cleveland Cavaliers joke on the bench during the second half of Game One of the NBA Eastern Conference semifinals against the Toronto Raptors at Quicken Loans Arena on May 1, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Raptors 116-105. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)DeMar DeRozan Offers $100 to Anyone Who Can Stop LeBron Jameshttps://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/demar-derozan-offers-100-anyone-can-stop-lebron-james/
https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/demar-derozan-offers-100-anyone-can-stop-lebron-james/#respondThu, 04 May 2017 13:50:48 +0000http://www.slamonline.com/?p=439448

]]>https://www.slamonline.com/uncategorized/demar-derozan-offers-100-anyone-can-stop-lebron-james/feed/02016 Getty ImagesCLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 15: DeMar DeRozan #10 of the Toronto Raptors puts pressure on LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half at Quicken Loans Arena on November 15, 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Raptors 121-117. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory copyright notice. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)